The Ecuadorian dislocated and fractured his left ankle in United's goalless draw with Scottish giants Rangers in the European Champions League mid-week tie.

"Antonio had his operation and it was successful. The break was clean and we were delighted to announce that. It was a major concern for us at the time," Ferguson said on United's official website.

"There is ligament damage but we are looking at the end of February, which is better than we thought on Tuesday night

"He is a strong boy and he is very positive about it -- being positive helps in these situations."

The 25-year-old joined the Red Devils from Wigan Athletic in the summer of 2009.