Manchester United face a huge test of their top four credentials this weekend as they look to bounce back from their embarrassing derby day defeat.
The Reds face Tottenham on Saturday, and having had their hopes of claiming that final Champions League spot on Sunday, the weekend’s clash at Old Trafford looks to be a do or die moment. Defeat to Spurs could all-but end their hopes of finishing fourth.
United weren’t helped on Sunday by the absences of a few notable players, who they’ll hope to have back this weekend. Here’s the latest on the injury front for Ralf Rangnick’s side.
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Cristiano Ronaldo
Having missed Sunday’s derby at the Etihad through injury, Ronaldo was back at Carrington on Tuesday after spending a couple of days in Portugal. The 37-year-old though is reportedly set to miss training on Wednesday, raising doubts over whether he will be fit to face Tottenham on Saturday.
The five-time Ballon d’Or has been struggling with a hip flexor issue, having missed training on Friday before being ruled out of the clash with Manchester City. He will be hoped to be able to return to training soon, but he could be missing again at the weekend.
Possible return date: March 12
Edinson Cavani
Cavani was once again missing on Sunday as United were left lacking a centre-forward against City. The Uruguay international has now missed the last six games with a groin problem.
The 35-year-old has been injured for 21 of United’s 37 fixtures across all competitions this season. Cavani shared an image of himself rehabilitating from his injury at home on Monday, so it looks unlikely he’ll be back for the visit of Spurs.
Possible return date: Unknown
Raphael Varane
United clearly missed Varane on Sunday as they were outclassed by their neighbours. The France international missed the derby after testing positive for Covid-19.
The Reds have been given a boost ahead of Saturday’s meeting with Spurs. Varane was pictured arriving at Carrington on Wednesday morning and should be in contention for the weekend.
Possible return date: March 12
Luke Shaw
Like Varane, Shaw missed Sunday’s defeat after contracting Covid. Unfortunately for the England international, the outlook doesn’t look as promising.
Unlike his team-mate, Shaw was not seen arriving for training on Wednesday, putting his involvement against Tottenham into doubt. Should he miss any more sessions this week, it’s likely Alex Telles will once again deputise on Saturday.
Possible return date: March 15
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