Rio Ferdinand has backed Manchester United to cope with the loss of fellow centre-back Nemanja Vidic.

United captain Vidic has been ruled out for around eight weeks after undergoing knee surgery.

With Phil Jones and Chris Smalling also nursing injuries on the sidelines, the Red Devils are left with Ferdinand and Jonny Evans as the club's only recognisable senior central defenders.

However, the 33-year-old has insisted that United have learned to adapt to any injury problems.

"The disappointing thing has not been getting the stability in the defence - but again that is testament to our squad. We have players who can come in and perform," he told the Manchester Evening News.

"Jonny Evans came in at Liverpool for Nemanja Vidic and performed very well.

"We have had to deal with a lot of defensive changes for the last couple of years and we are getting used to it now."

Ferdinand has made two Premier League appearances this season.