Phil Jones will not be fit for Manchester United's opening Champions League group game against Bayer Leverkusen on Tuesday evening at Old Trafford, in what represents a significant blow to David Moyes as he seeks to win his first game in the competition as manager. The defender suffered an ankle injury in the 1-0 defeat at Liverpool before the international break.

Jones, who had been selected at right-back by Moyes in Rafael da Silva's absence, may again be without the Brazilian and Chris Smalling, who can also play in the position, for Bayer's visit after each missed Saturday lunchtime's 2-0 home win against Crystal Palace. Rafael is fighting to return in time from a hamstring injury, while Smalling is suffering from an undisclosed problem.

Moyes, who has never managed in the group stage of the Champions League before, will be concerned at not being able to field Jones, who was impressive when United drew 1-1 at Real Madrid in the first knockout round last season.

Moyes, who confirmed that Jones will not recover in time to face Bayer, may be forced to select Fábio da Silva at right-back. The Brazilian made a first start for United since February last year in the defeat of Palace at Old Trafford, following last season's loan at Queens Park Rangers.