England international Wes Brown became the latest Manchester United defender on the club's injury list when he limped off late on in Saturday's game at West Ham.

The Manchester-born defender - who has a long history of injury problems - has been enjoying a run in the first team in the absence of Rio Ferdinand and Johnny Evans, but left the field with a strain in the last minute of his side's 4-0 victory.

He became the second addition to the lengthening casualty list in the game, following Gary Neville's first half groin strain.

Manager Sir Alex Ferguson said afterwards: "I don't know where I'm going to get a back four for Tuesday", referring to the upcoming Champions League game against VFL Wolfsburg.

The club will be aiming to help its injured defenders - which also include the Da Silva twins - recover from their strain injuries as quickly as possible to ease the crisis.

As well as the Wolfsburg game this week, United's defence may also face a stern test next weekend, when Aston Villa are the opponents.