Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson believes that the club are graced with great depth when it comes to central defensive options.

Club captain Nemanja Vidic has been sidelined since December but his absence has been softened by the form of Rio Ferdinand and Jonny Evans.

Young duo Chris Smalling and Phil Jones have also been regulars in the United back four this season and Ferguson has revealed he is happy with his "strong" defensive unit.

"Hopefully - and I think I am right - we are in a really strong position with centre-backs," said Ferguson.

"Jones and Smalling were bought for the long term and have proved they can play in other positions of course and when Vidic comes back at the start of next season we will have a strong defensive core.

"Nemanja won't travel with us on the pre-season tour, but he will certainly be ready for the start of the season. Then I can pick and choose whatever two I fancy or whatever two are in consistent form."

Evans and Ferdinand are expected to line up in central defence when United face Queens Park Rangers at Old Trafford on Sunday.