Sir Alex Ferguson has declared Paul Scholes' recent knee operation a "100% success" and believes the midfielder will be like a new signing.
Scholes has been ruled out until the New Year with a knee injury, robbing Manchester United of their senior midfielder at a time when they are looking to depose Arsenal at the Premier League summit.
The recent form of Brazilian international Anderson means Scholes' presence has not been missed quite as much as Ferguson might have feared so far.
However, the United boss recognises how influential Scholes is to his team and, when the 32-year-old former England star eventually makes his comeback, Ferguson feels it will be like having a new signing.
"The operation Paul has had on his knee has been 100% successful," Ferguson said.
"The surgeon has reported that the condition generally of his knee was excellent with no concerns.
"He will be back, refreshed and eager, in January. It will be like signing a new player in the transfer window for the second half of the season."