Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic has declared that he is confident of a return to form this season.

Vidic was forced to spend the majority of last season on the sidelines with a cruciate injury as United lost their title to rivals Manchester City.

The Serbian international thinks that in time he can re-establish himself at the heart of United's defence alongside Rio Ferdinand.

He said: "I have no doubt Rio and me can again be the best couple of central defenders in the Premier League.

"That's the way it has been for a few years and now my dream is for us to return to the same level. People can think anything they like. But, all things being equal, it is very difficult for anybody to get the better of us.

"My knee is in perfect condition. My only challenge this season is to avoid more injury. I've received a lot of confidence from the manager and this is the main thing for me."

United begin their Premier League campaign with a trip to Everton on Monday, August 20.