Nemanja Vidic to start pre-season training early

Nemanja Vidic has been given the all-clear to begin pre-season training a week before his Manchester United teammates.

The Serbian defender hasn't played for Sir Alex Ferguson's side since suffering a knee ligament injury in December but has enjoyed success during recent rehab sessions.

United's medical staff are eager for Vidic to start training this week in a bid to be fully fit before the start of next season, according to The Sun.

Vidic has started running again and United are reportedly confident the 30-year-old will make a full recovery.

The majority of the squad are expected to begin preparations for next season on Monday, with players that competed at Euro 2012 being allowed an extended break.