Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has provided the latest on his squad in advance of travelling south to face Brighton & Hove Albion in the Premier League.
Thursday’s 20:00 BST kick-off presents another opportunity for the Reds to take a big step towards sealing Champions League qualification next term, with the Seagulls one of the teams still in the mix for a top-four spot.
After the 1-0 victory over Aston Villa at the weekend, hopefully there appear to have been no fresh injuries to contend with, as Victor Lindelof and Luke Shaw continued their successful partnership at the heart of the defence, in the absence of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
The game looks to have come too soon for Alejandro Garnacho, who has signed a new long-term contract with the club.
The exciting teenager was injured in the 0-0 draw with Southampton, in March, but has been back on the grass at Carrington.
“I think we have one training [session], but I think it’s too soon to be available,” admitted Ten Hag at his pre-match press conference. “I think he is short [of full fitness]. I think he needs some training and then, in short notice, he will be available.”
Scott McTominay has been absent due to injury, and the manager admits he believes Varane could return sooner than the Scotland international, although not in time for Sunday’s away clash at West Ham United.
“The prognosis, I think Rapha is closer than Scott McTominay in this moment,” added Ten Hag. “But still they are, for the coming two games [Brighton and West Ham], they are not available.”
Donny van de Beek told us on Sunday that he is making good progress after surgery, with the Netherlands international out of action since picking up a knee injury against Bournemouth, at the start of the year. Tom Heaton has also been sidelined of late.
