Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has provided an injury update ahead of the club’s Premier League clash against Everton on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Devils returned to winning ways on Thursday with a 3-2 Europa League triumph over Omonia. Marcus Rashford starred off the bench with two goals and an assist.
The club have decided to stay in Cyprus for warm-weather training today, and Ten Hag has now provided a mixed update on the players that were absent.
Harry Maguire picked up a muscle injury on Nations League duty for England last month. Ten Hag has ruled him out for the encounter at Goodison Park.
Aside from the club-captain, Donny van de Beek, who has sustained a fresh muscle injury, has also been sidelined for the Merseyside trip alongside Aaron Wan-Bissaka.
Raphael Varane could, however, return after a minor ankle issue. Speaking in his pre-match press conference (Manutd.com), Ten Hag said that he is hopeful of having the Frenchman back.
He said: “It’s difficult to say. Raphael Varane makes progress, and I hope he’s available, but I think it will be close. From the other players, Harry Maguire [is] not [available] and then it’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Donny van de Beek, both not [fit].”
United can’t afford more injuries with hectic schedule
The Red Devils have another 11 games before the World Cup break in mid-November. As a result, they need as much squad depth as possible to deal with the hectic schedule.
The last thing that Ten Hag will want is more injuries. Varane looks on course to make his comeback and it is obviously good news, considering Victor Lindelof was far from his best.
Varane and Lisandro Martinez have been superb as a central defensive pairing this term. Barring the Manchester derby loss, they have stood out with their performances every time.
Hopefully, the rest of the players can return as soon as possible. The Red Devils had a reality check with a heavy 6-3 derby defeat to Manchester City in the Premier League last weekend.
They must respond with a more resolute display at Goodison Park, but it won’t be straightforward.
Frank Lampard’s side have conceded just seven goals from eight league matches this campaign and they currently possess the best defensive record in the English top-flight.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
