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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Alex James

Manchester United undroppables risk suspensions in Europa League

Manchester United are in Spain this week as they seek to secure their spot in the last eight of the Europa League, though they could be without two key players for their quarter-final clash should they progress.

Erik ten Hag's side travel to Seville to face Real Betis with a commanding lead from the first leg at Old Trafford where United ran out 4-1 winners. It means the visitors are overwhelming favourites to book their spot in the quarter-final draw.

Their La Liga opponents will need to win by three clear goals just to take the tie to extra time. There is no away goals rule in the competition.

READ MORE: United player ratings following Southampton draw

Ten Hag could opt to shuffle his pack somewhat given the advantage his men hold but the Dutchman will still be putting out a strong side. And two United players will be walking a disciplinary tightrope in Seville.

Bruno Fernandes and midfield general Casemiro are both one booking away from missing the first leg of a potential quarter-final. The Brazilian was sent off in the Premier League draw with Southampton on Sunday but is available to feature in Europe as domestic suspensions do not carry over.

Given he will be absent for the FA Cup tie with Fulham and the following three Premier League matches, the 31-year-old seems certain to start in Spain. Fernandes is also a likely starter given his influence on this United side.

If either of the duo are booked they will collect a one-match ban. Even if they avoid a caution on Thursday night, the pair will still have to navigate both legs of the likely quarter-final without a booking before the slate is wiped clean.

Any player who picks up three yellow cards in the knockout stage before the semi-final stage earns a one-game suspension.

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