Sir Alex Ferguson has confirmed Manchester United may lose Quinton Fortune for three weeks in the New Year.
The 26-year-old, who has developed into a key member of the United side this season, is likely to be on international duty with South Africa in the African Nations Cup from January 24th to February 14th.
Fortune, who has played at both left-back and midfield, could miss four of United matches in the Premiership and FA Cup.
Ferguson told the Manchester Evening News: "Quinton will have to be available for South Africa if they want him. There is nothing we can do about that, but it can also be a good thing for him.
"He has been brilliant for us this season. He is one of these players who has just got better the longer he has been with us.
"I think signing a new contract last season has settled him down a lot. It took away the uncertainty for him. He wanted to stay at Old Trafford and to be honest I was worried that he was going to go.
Meanwhile, United striker Diego Forlan scored twice for Uruguay during their 3-3 draw in a World Cup qualifier against Brazil in Curitiba.