Manchester United could remain without a number of first team players when they return to Premier League duties this weekend to take on West Ham.
The Red Devils have been able to accelerate the recovery of some of their injured stars of late, although Erik ten Hag is yet to see a fully fit squad at his disposal. There are a few players who remain doubts ahead of this weekend, with United’s squad depth being put to the test.
Here is all you need to know about the current state of play at Old Trafford and the expected return dates for those out on the sidelines.
Raphael Varane
United suffered a huge blow when Varane was forced off through injury against Chelsea last weekend, with it being revealed that the centre-back will not feature again for the Red Devils until after the World Cup.
The Frenchman left the field in tears on the hour mark at Stamford Bridge having sustained a thigh injury, with Victor Lindelof expected to replace him for the remaining matches before the international break. However, he could be fit enough to play for France at the World Cup.
Speaking on Wednesday, Ten Hag said: “He will be out, certainly until the World Cup. So, he will not play in this block for Man United. I think [he will be fit for the World Cup]. We have to wait and see how it develops, how his rehab develops.”
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Anthony Martial
Martial could be nearing a return to action once more after missing United’s last five fixtures with a fresh knock that he sustained during the 2-1 victory over Everton on October 9.
The Frenchman remains a doubt for this weekend against West Ham, but his return to training last week signals that he is closing in on full fitness and after missing Thursday’s clash with FC Sheriff, he has had extra time to work towards a return for this weekend.
Speaking on October 21, Ten Hag said: "He was on the [training] pitch, but he's not available for tomorrow. We have to see how it develops in the coming days."
Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Wan-Bissaka is on the verge of returning from injury for Man United after being left out at the last minute for Thursday's victory over FC Sheriff.
The full back has been working his way back from a muscular issue for the majority of the month and has since returned to first-team training. Having missed out in midweek, there is a high chance that he will finally be included in a matchday squad once more for Sunday's visit of West Ham.
Speaking on Thursday, Ten Hag said: "Donny [van de Beek], Harry [Maguire], Aaron [Wan-Bissaka] are all in training for preparation for tomorrow's game. We will assess after the training, together with the medical [staff] I will take the decision."
Brandon Williams
Forgotten United defender Williams has been out of action since returning to the club in the summer following his season-long loan spell at Norwich City, having picked up an injury during pre-season.
The versatile full-back has been named in United’s Premier League squad this year, although it is unlikely he will play any part after Ten Hag was willing to let him leave in the summer transfer window. Nonetheless, he is on the road to recovery and could return to first team training soon.
Speaking on October 18, Ten Hag said: “I see good progress with Brandon Williams. He returned on the pitch, individual-based. Brandon probably [won't be] back in the squad for the games, but probably in team training."
Axel Tuanzebe
Tuanzebe is another player who has been quickly forgotten about at Old Trafford this season, having returned from a loan spell at Napoli in the summer and failing to impress Ten Hag following his appointment as manager in May.
The centre back sustained an injury during pre-season and is unlikely to play any part in United’s matchday squads before Christmas. However, Ten Hag has provided an update on the player as he works his way back to full fitness.
Speaking on October 18, Ten Hag said: “Axel is still in, working inside so he's not back on the pitch. I think it will be difficult for Axel to return before Christmas.”
