Eddie Howe has spoken of Allan Saint-Maximin's fitness levels after he missed the 2-0 win at Brentford.
The winger has been in Monaco getting treatment on a calf injury and has now missed the last two fixtures against West Ham and the Bees on Saturday.
United have managed to pick up four points without Saint-Maximin but if fit Howe has a major dilemma given the Frenchman's star quality.
When asked about Saint-Maximin's fitness, Howe said: "He was some way short.
"We hoped Allan would make it, but he was some way short in the end.
"We’re now keeping our fingers crossed, and hoping we can get him ready for next week.
"I think he’ll be a lot closer for that game.
"He’s a massive player for us, and we’re very aware that we need him back, but it’s very good to see the team able to cope.
"If you see the players that are missing, there are some really outstanding individuals, but the team's being strong enough at the moment."
