Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed that Nemanja Vidic is certain to be fit for the start of next season.

The Serbian defender has not figured since December due to a knee injury and had admitted that he was never contemplating a return during the current campaign.

The 30-year-old will not be fit in time for the Reds Devils' pre-season tour, although Ferguson is sure that he will be available when the new Premier League season begins on August 18.

"He won't travel with us on the pre-season tour but he will certainly be ready for the start of the season," said the Scot.

"Then I can pick and choose whatever two [central defenders] I fancy or whatever two are in consistent form."

Vidic has made just six Premier League appearances this season.