Ferguson's side are two points behind league leaders Chelsea
Manchester United's preparations for the derby at Manchester City have been hampered by injuries and a virus affecting some of their players.
United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has ruled Ryan Giggs and Owen Hargreaves out of the game, while Nani is a doubt.
"Ryan is out," said Ferguson. "Nani is doubtful. At this stage it doesn't look as if he will make it."
A flu virus has also put a doubt over several players and Ferguson added: "We are counting heads at the moment."
Paul Scholes, Dimitar Berbatov and Nemanja Vidic are believed to be three players suffering from the virus.
"I've no idea where to begin with my team, no ideas at all at the moment," stated Ferguson.
It is difficult to say whether it is inevitable they are going to win the league at some point
Ferguson on Man City
"We've still got players out with flu and some were sent home yesterday [Monday] so we're not in a great position at the moment."
Giggs has been denied the chance of making a record 34th derby outing because of a hamstring injury, while Nani is struggling with the groin problem he suffered in the Champions League win at Bursaspor.