Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that he will be without Marcus Rashford, Luke Shaw and Alejandro Garnacho for the first leg of the Europa League quarter-final tie.
The Red Devils entertain Sevilla at Old Trafford on Thursday evening and they should start the game as favourites, considering the contrasting league fortunes of both clubs this season.
United have been in the top four of the Premier League since the beginning of the year. On the other hand, Sevilla have been in a relegation tussle. They are only five points clear of safety in La Liga.
Ahead of the game, Ten Hag has confirmed that Rashford won’t play any part, having picked up a groin injury in the 2-0 win over Everton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.
The Red Devils boss revealed that he could be sidelined for a few games, he told reporters: “A few games, so that’s the statement. I can’t give more details on it because we don’t now.”
“We’ll have to see it how it develops, He’s started his rehab and that helps to get back soon.”
The Dutchman added that Shaw could return in the short term after his hamstring injury, though Garnacho could take longer with his ankle problem being ‘more severe’.
He added: “Both not available. Definitely the injury of Garnacho is more severe, but I expect Luke Shaw back on shorter notice.”
In the absence of Shaw, Tyrell Malacia looks set to start for the second straight game. The Dutchman should relish the opportunity to play the entire 90 minutes against Sevilla.
Malacia has impressed with his strong tackling skills and ability to win duels. The left-back still lacks the cutting edge in the final third. Hopefully, he will make a goal contribution tomorrow.
Meanwhile, Rashford’s injury probably means that Anthony Martial will start his first game since January.
The France international has been hampered by five separate injuries this season and this has forced the manager to limit his playing time since the March international break.
Martial could play around 60 minutes in tomorrow’s encounter before being replaced by Wout Weghorst.
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