Dimitar Berbatov and Wes Brown have handed Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson a double injury blow.

Berbatov (hamstring) will miss the games against Aston Villa, Villarreal and possibly Manchester City, though Ferguson said: "It is a slight strain, not a tear, so that is positive news."

The manager added that defender Brown (ankle) "will be out for four to five weeks, which is disappointing."

Carrick eyes Villa scalp

England midfielder Michael Carrick is confident Manchester United can beat Aston Villa on Saturday evening - providing they hit top form.

Just seven days after United lost at the Emirates Stadium, Villa came out on top against Arsenal to maintain their push for a top-four slot.

Carrick said: "We know what Villa bring to the table. If we play like we can, we are confident we will win the game."

Ferguson hails O'Neill

Sir Alex Ferguson has paid handsome tribute to Aston Villa boss Martin O'Neill and claimed the Irishman could lead his club into the top four.

O'Neill has grasped the challenge at Villa Park with both hands, assembling an impressive squad packed with young English talent.

Ferguson said: "They can finish in the top four, they are level with Arsenal and not far behind us."