Manchester United have said that Rio Ferdinand could be fit for the start of the Premier League season following the knee injury that stopped the defender from competing at the World Cup for England.

Ferdinand, the England captain, took no part in the team's four matches in South Africa after picking up knee ligament damage during a training session a week before their opening game against USA in Rustenburg. He flew home soon after the match, which ended 1-1, and was at that stage though to be facing several months out of action.

However, United feel confident that the 31-year-old will be available for their opening game of the 2010-11 campaign, which is against Newcastle on 14 August.

"A club spokesperson told ManUtd.com that a 10-week absence has been estimated for the defender, dating back to when his injury was sustained – on 4 June," read a statement on the club's website. "On that basis, Ferdinand could be ready by 13 August – currently the eve of the first league game against Newcastle United at Old Trafford, although fixture changes for live television broadcasts have yet to be announced.

"If the Magpies clash is deemed slightly too soon for Rio, then other possible comeback games include Fulham away on the following weekend or the third league match at home to his old club West Ham, currently scheduled for Saturday 28 August."