Key Manchester United duo train ahead of Tottenham clash while Cristiano Ronaldo works separately

Ralf Rangnick could have more options for Sunday’s Premier League match at Old Trafford.

Raphael Varane and Edison Cavani were pictured in Manchester United training on Wednesday, as they prepare for this weekend’s Premier League match against Tottenham Hotspur.

However, Cristiano Ronaldo was not involved in the session with the main squad and the Red Devils confirmed on their website that he was training by himself as he continues his recuperation from the hip injury which kept him out of the Manchester derby at the weekend.

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The Portugal forward suffered from the same problem earlier in the year and is a major doubt ahead of the Spurs game.

Ronaldo missed Sunday’s derby with a hip problem. Credit: Getty.Ronaldo missed Sunday’s derby with a hip problem. Credit: Getty.
Ronaldo missed Sunday’s derby with a hip problem. Credit: Getty.

Without a recognised forward against Manchester City, Ralf Rangnick opted to start Paul Pogba and Bruno Fernandes up front, although he’s unlikely to do that if Cavani is available.

The Uruguayan hasn’t played in over a month for the Red Devils due to a groin problem, and Rangnick had to defend the attacker on Sunday after suggestions he ruled himself out of contention at the Etihad despite training last week.

As for Varane, he missed the derby with Covid-19, but his involvement in training means he must have posted a negative test, and can play this weekend.

Varane returned to training on Wednesday. Credit: Getty.Varane returned to training on Wednesday. Credit: Getty.
Varane returned to training on Wednesday. Credit: Getty.
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Luke Shaw also sat out the derby due to Covid and wasn’t pictured in training. However, with three days until Spurs travel to Old Trafford, he could have recovered in time for the match.

Saturday’s clash with Spurs has taken on even more significance after the North-London club beat Everton 5-0 on Monday night.

Antonio Conte’s men have played two fewer games than United in the race for the top four, but would move above the Red Devils with three points at the weekend.

Arsenal are currently fourth in the table and have three games in hand on United, meaning their chances of finishing in the Champions League spots are reducing by the week.