Denis Irwin and Roy Keane are almost certain to miss Manchester United's league opener against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Sunday.

Keane missed Denis Irwin's testimonial game against Wednesday night against Manchester City and is nearly certain to miss out, while Irwin's celebration turned to disappointment when he hobbled off mid-way through the game because of a knock he took from George Weah.

After the game, Ferguson said: "It got a bit silly at times, but it was always going to be like that in such a game.

"We knew it was going to be very competitive, City are back in the Premiership and they wanted to show us they can compete at the top level."

United also sustained some minor injuries: Phil Neville's head wound needed stitches and Andy Cole picked up a groin strain. The England duo should make the clash with Newcastle, although Ferguson will be already planning ahead for bad news on Keane and Irwin.