Manchester United are without Cristiano Ronaldo as they face rivals Liverpool at Anfield tonight.
United have confirmed Ronaldo will not play after announcing the tragic death of his baby son yesterday evening.
“Family is more important than everything and Ronaldo is supporting his loved ones at this immensely difficult time,” United said in a statement. “As such, we can confirm that he will not feature in the match against Liverpool at Anfield on Tuesday evening and we underline the family’s request for privacy.
“Cristiano, we are all thinking of you and sending strength to the family.”
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Former Real Madrid defender Raphael Varane also misses out in a game that could have huge ramifications in the title race and battle for fourth place as he nears a return from a muscle injury.
“[Varane] was with training with the team, he was on the pitch with one of our rehab coaches,” said United’s interim boss Ralf Rangnick on Monday. “With regard to the other injured players, it's the same situation.”
Edinson Cavani (calf), Luke Shaw (leg) and Fred (hip) continue to be unavailable for United.
Phil Jones starts in what looks to be a back five, while Bruno Fernandes is fit after being involved in a car crash on Monday morning.
“He was training with the team obviously the accident happened on the way to Carrington,” confirmed Rangnick. “As far as I know, no one was injured. He was okay and he'll be okay for tomorrow.”
Tactically speaking, Rangnick has opted for pace in attack with Marcus Rashford and Anthony Elanga, seemingly hoping to catch Liverpool’s high-line out.
Paul Pogba also starts despite being substituted at the weekend to a chorus of boos from the Old Trafford faithful.
Manchester United XI: De Gea, Wan Bissaka, Lindelof, Maguire, Jones, Dalot, Matic, Pogba, Fernandes, Rashford, Elanga
Subs: Henderson, Telles, Bailly, Hannibal, Lingard, Mata, McTominay, Garnacho, Sancho
