Manchester United vs. Liverpool: Vidic's Return Key to Man U Passing Road Test

Manchester United was in a minor slump before the team broke to represent their home nations. Defender Nemanja Vidic, who's been out for nearly two months, played for Serbia during Euro 2012 qualifying and is hoping to return to the Red Devils lineup on Saturday vs. Liverpool FC and serve as a slump-buster.

Vidic's absence was most obvious during the team's 3-3 home draw against Basel on Sept. 27. United's defense looked out of sorts in the second half and could have used his veteran presence to regain control of the situation.

His 90-minute outing for Serbia on Tuesday was likely the last game of Vidic's international career (via Daily Mail).

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The match also signaled the end of Vidic's international career with the 29-year-old saying: 'It's time for a change of generations, and for some older players to say goodbye to Serbian kit.'

He added he was disappointed that he would never get to play in the European Championship and when asked if he had retired from international football, he said: 'If you want me to say that, yes.'

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The Red Devils, who will also receive a boost by the return of midfielder Tom Cleverley, are small favorites to prevail from Anfield with a win, according to wsn.com. Manchester United won two of the three clashes last season, but Liverpool picked up a 3-1 win at home.

With four games in 10 days following the two-week club respite, Vidic will be able to get back up to full speed quickly. It's especially important for United's Oct. 18 trip to face Otelul Galati. After two draws to begin Champions League play, the Red Devils will want to get in the win column before they dig a hole for themselves.

Calf injuries tend to linger due to extensive running by players during games, so manager Sir Alex Ferguson will probably get Vidic a game or two off during a busy couple of weeks to ensure he doesn't aggravate the ailment.

Although Vidic's absence from the lineup caused some defensive problems, Ferguson would much rather have it over with now than needing to deal with a problem during the business end of the Champions League.

It will be interesting to see how Manchester United comes out against Liverpool. Will it be the team who appeared to right the ship against Norwich City or the one which suffered back-to-back draws in late September (it's good when draws are considered a noteworthy setback, though).

One thing's for sure, Vidic will provide an instant boost to what had become a shaky back line. And that's music to David de Gea's ears.