World Cup winner Laurent Blanc was today ruled out of Manchester United's Champions League clash against Basle in Switzerland tomorrow.
The French defender has failed to recover from a calf injury sustained in the 5-3 victory over Newcastle on Saturday. Blanc's absence increases manager Sir Alex Ferguson's selection problems.
David Beckham, Roy Keane, Rio Ferdinand, Nicky Butt and Gary Neville remain sidelined. However, Phil Neville is available again after suspension and John O'Shea is likely to partner Wes Brown in the heart of the defence.
Ferguson was up-beat, however, as the squad set off this morning. "Brown and O'Shea are young players with great potential," he said. "Wes has been fantastic after being out for so long."
The victory against Newcastle leaves United six points behind Arsenal at the top of the table.