Shinji Kagawa: Man Utd midfielder out for further four weeks

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Shinji Kagawa

Manchester United's Shinji Kagawa has been ruled out for four more weeks.

The Japan midfielder, 23, injured his knee during the 3-2 Champions League home win against Braga on 23 October.

United manager Sir Alex Ferguson initially expected Kagawa to return within four or five weeks.

But ahead of Tuesday's Group H match against Galatasaray, he said: "His progress has been quite slow. He hasn't started any outside work and he may be another four weeks away."

He added: "Overall, he will probably be looking at six to seven weeks since the injury. The first job now is to get him back."

Better news for Ferguson sees England defender Phil Jones return to the United squad for the Istanbul tie following knee surgery.

Jones, 20, has yet to make an appearance this season after hurting his back during pre-season and then suffering a meniscus tear in his right knee.

"It's a big day for Phil Jones," said Ferguson. "He's been out all season but he's done enough training now to make sure his fitness is OK. I'm looking forward to bringing him back.

"Phil's had different types of injuries [in his United career so far]. But he's young so he's still to develop physically in terms of his body. He's only 20 years of age so there's plenty of time for him."

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