There has been further bad news for Manchester United as midfielder Fred looks set for a spell on the sidelines.
United's fading Champions League hopes became even bleaker on Saturday after they suffered an embarrassing 1-0 loss to relegation strugglers Everton at Goodison Park. Despite having all of the ball, a dire lack of creativity meant United were unable to reply to Anthony Gordon's winner in the 27th minute and fell yet further behind Tottenham in fourth place.
Things may well get even worse, too, as Fred had to be substituted in the 36th minute of the match. Ralf Rangnick has now confirmed he suffered a muscle injury on his hip and appears resigned for a period without the Brazilian.
ALSO READ: Erik ten Hag dismisses Manchester United job as 'rumours' after Ajax win
United were already missing Scott McTominay on Merseyside due to a foot injury and it looks as if Fred is now joining him in the treatment room for an extended period. Following the match, Rangnick was asked about United's chances of finishing in the top four and he was not optimistic as he explained Fred's injury.
He told the BBC: "Difficult. As long as we don't win our own games it doesn't make sense to hope for good results from the other teams. Fred had some muscular problems on his hip flexor. We already are without McTominay. Without both defensive midfielders it isn't good for us."
If McTominay and Fred are both sidelined that leaves just Paul Pogba and Nemanja Matic as United's natural midfield options.
There may yet be more bad news to come on the injury front, too, as Cristiano Ronaldo limped off the pitch at Goodison Park after sustaining a gruesome-looking injury to his shin. A cut down the 37-year-old's right leg could be seen as he left the field in obvious discomfort but an update on his condition has yet to be given.
Sign up to our United newsletter so you never miss an update from Old Trafford this season.
