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Kobbie Mainoo is absent for Saturday’s Manchester United early kick-off at West Ham United

Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo is absent for Saturday’s early kick-off against West Ham United, according to the Guardian.

The 18-year-old started in the goalless draw against Liverpool at Anfield last Sunday and there have not been any reports that he has picked up a knock.

However, the Guardian suggests he has sustained an injury which will rule him out of today’s game.

Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount and Victor Lindelof are also unavailable for selection due to various injury problems.

Man United will be looking to secure all three points against the Hammers, and missing Mainoo would be a huge blow.

He was one of their best players against Liverpool and has been the revelation of the season for United.

The Red Devils will have to deploy Scott McTominay and Sofyan Amrabat in the middle of the park today if their academy graduate is unavailable, and manager Erik ten Hag will hope the duo deliver.

The teenage sensation has been providing the stability for Man United to push on in the final third anytime he is on the pitch.

The Red Devils have no plans to sign Amrabat permanently following the emergence of Mainoo this term and due to his struggles with the pace of the Premier League.

However, they may be forced to bring in another defensive-minded midfielder if Casemiro also leaves at the end of the season.

Today is a must-win game for Ten Hag given the pressure mounting on him following 12 defeats in 25 games across all competitions.

While the injuries have not helped, he will have no excuse if Man United leave the London Stadium without all three points.