Manchester United could seal their place back in the Champions League for next season should they pick up at least a point against Chelsea later this week.
United sit fourth in the Premier League table as things stand, level on points with Newcastle United, and are well placed for being back in Europe's top club competition for the 2023/24 campaign. The 1-0 victory over Bournemouth at the Vitality Stadium has placed them three points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool.
After Jurgen Klopp's outfit could only draw at Anfield against Aston Villa, United extended their advantage over their bitter rivals. United are in a promising position and have their destiny firmly in their hands with a game in hand.
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That game in hand comes this Thursday at Old Trafford when United host a struggling Chelsea side. It has been a campaign to forget for the Stamford Bridge side who will finish in the bottom half of the table.
United have had many injury problems over the course of the season and it continues to be the case as the campaign approaches its climax. Here is the latest details on those members of the United players who are out of action at present.
Marcus Rashford
Injury: Illness
Potential return date: Chelsea (H), May 25
What ten Hag has said: "Rashy trained the whole week but today he reported he doesn't feel well, so he's ill. We have to see how he recovers during the day and see tomorrow [vs Bournemouth]."
Marcel Sabitzer
Injury: Knee
Potential return date: Pre-season
What United have said: "Manchester United midfielder Marcel Sabitzer has suffered a meniscal injury which will, unfortunately, rule him out for the remainder of the season,” a statement released by the club reads.
“Everyone at the club is disappointed to lose Marcel's services, as the Reds chase a strong finish to the season in the Premier League and FA Cup, and we are grateful for his contribution to our progress so far.”
Tom Heaton
Injury: Ankle
Potential return date: Unknown
What Heaton has said: Back in March, the reserve goalkeeper explained: "Yeah, unfortunately the day before the Fulham game I rolled my ankle in training. Thankfully, it’s not too bad but it’ll mean a couple of weeks out, I think. I should be back some point in April somewhere, hopefully halfway through." Since then, Heaton has not been on the bench for United.
Lisandro Martinez
Injury: Foot
Potential return date: Pre-season
What Martinez has said: In April, the defender released an update following surgery. "Everything went really well, thanks to God! Many thanks for all of your messages. Now focusing on the recovery."
Donny van de Beek
Injury: Knee
Potential return date: Pre-season
What Van de Beek has said: "Everything is going up now, I feel much better and I am on a good road now. I have to eat a lot of protein as well to recover - I have to eat well for my knee. Football is a big part of your life and you enjoy it every day with your teammates. And if you have to miss that, I try to see it now in a positive way. I am just getting closer every day to being on the pitch again and I can't wait to be back."
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