Manchester United could potentially welcome back three injured players for Wednesday’s Carabao Cup clash against Newcastle United.
For two sides competing in the Champions League this season, the last-16 clash could offer an opportunity to rotate amid such a busy period of the campaign. Between the October and November international windows, United and Newcastle respectively play seven matches in 22 days, with both facing tough games in the Premier League and Europe over the next week.
For the Red Devils, Wednesday’s game could hand several fringe members of Erik ten Hag’s squad the opportunity to be afforded a rare start. Summer signing Altay Bayindir might make his debut for the club, although Andre Onana played in the previous round against Crystal Palace.
In defence, the United boss doesn’t have much room for manoeuvre given the spate of injuries, but in midfield, Mason Mount and Hannibal could be in line for starts. Facundo Pellistri, Alejandro Garnacho and Anthony Martial may also come into the starting XI.
Wednesday’s game also offers an opportunity to take several underperforming players out of the firing line, following Sunday’s Manchester derby defeat. Marcus Rashford is one of those, especially given reports that he was seen partying in the city centre on Sunday, hours after that defeat to Manchester City.
But Ten Hag also has seven injuries to consider, as well as Jadon Sancho, who is still training with the youth team at present. Ahead of the Carabao Cup encounter, here’s the latest on every player missing for United, and when they could return…
1. Aaron Wan-Bissaka - Potential return date: 4 November
Has missed the last six games with a hamstring injury, but has recently returned to training. There's an unlikely chance the defender is back to face Newcastle, or he could even be involved in this weekend's trip to Fulham.
2. Lisandro Martinez - Potential return date: January
Required surgery last month on a pre-existing injury from the back end of last season, when the Argentine broke his metatarsal. He's not expected back any time soon.
3. Luke Shaw - Potential return date: Early December
Ten Hag said earlier this month that Shaw would not be back until after November's international break. The ex-Southampton man hasn't played since the second weekend of the season, but could be available around December.
4. Tyrell Malacia: Potential return date: December
Hasn't played this season due to a knee problem, but is back in individual training and could be an option after the November international break. United are unlikely to rush Malacia back after such a long absence.