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Ralf Rangnick confirms Victor Lindelof is fit for FA Cup tie vs Aston Villa

Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that Victor Lindelof is available for selection ahead of Monday’s FA Cup third-round tie against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils have endured a mixed run of fortunes since returning from a Covid-19 outbreak in the squad. They have picked up just four points from three Premier League matches.

They recently suffered a disappointing 1-0 defeat to Wolverhampton Wanderers at home. The visitors were thoroughly dominant with a stunning 15 attempts in the opening half.

Rangnick will expect a strong response from his side on Monday, and ahead of the game, he has received a boost with Lindelof back in training following his brief absence with coronavirus.

However, Harry Maguire remains sidelined with a chest injury, and Rangnick was unclear whether the club captain will return to training in the lead-up to Monday’s encounter.

He told Manutd.com: “Victor is back in training, since yesterday, which is very good news for us.

“Harry hasn’t been able to train, as yet, and we have to wait and see how this develops, tomorrow or the day after tomorrow.

“With Harry, there is still a question mark but Victor will definitely be available for the game on Monday.”

Our view:

With Lindelof, Maguire and Eric Bailly sidelined against Wolves, Phil Jones was handed his first United appearance in nearly two years.

The centre-back stood out in his comeback game, eventually earning praise from the manager for his faultless performance.

Jones should keep his place against the Villans. He is likely to continue to partner Raphael Varane in central defence.

Meanwhile, Rangnick could also deploy a three-man backline which was the case during the second half against Wolves.

If the German continues with a similar system, there is a high possibility that Lindelof could return to the starting line-up.

The £21.6m-rated star recently suffered an untimely setback and will be keen to cement a starting role going forward.

Eric Bailly may not be involved in United’s remaining fixtures this month after reporting for international duty with Ivory Coast.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com.

Read: Premier League confirm new date for Man Utd’s trip to Brentford.

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