Manchester United interim manager Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that it is unlikely that Edinson Cavani will be fit enough to start Sunday's Manchester derby at the Etihad Stadium.
The striker — who is out-of-contract at the end of the season — has missed the last four matches through a groin problem that has troubled him throughout the season. He has not played since being handed a surprise start in the 1-1 draw with Burnley on February 8.
The Uruguayan has stepped up his efforts in training this week and, as Rangnick confirmed during his pre-match press conference on Friday, is expected to be included in the squad for the trip across town to Pep Guardiola's table-toppers. However, Cavani is not expected to be thrown straight back into the starting line-up.
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Rangnick has confirmed that it is probably too soon for him to be in contention to start, but he could step off the bench, most likely during the second half.
"Well it's good to have him back," Rangnick told United's club website. "We have one more alternative in a central attacking position but he has been out for three weeks.
"That's also something we have to bear in mind. I don't think he could play for more than, I don't know, half an hour.
"He's ready for that, for coming on as a sub but I don't think he can be in contention to start that game."
Rangnick has also been boosted by the return of Scotland international Scott McTominay. The midfielder has missed United's last two games through illness.
Like Cavani, the Scot has trained all week ahead of the derby, strengthening Rangnick's options in midfield. However, unlike Cavani, he could be in contention to earn a starting berth.
The German added: "[It's] Important to have him available. He's been training the whole week.
"He's been out one week only but he was really seriously ill and lost some weight. I think he could be in contention for the starting XI but I will decide on that tomorrow [Saturday] after the last training session."
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