Manchester United face Everton in the Premier League this Saturday as they aim to close the gap to the top-four places.
Last week’s defeat to Manchester City leaves Erik ten Hag’s side 11 points off fourth-place Aston Villa and six behind Tottenham Hotspur, who have a game in hand. Spurs and Villa meet on Sunday in a crucial game for the top-four picture, one United will hope ends in a draw.
But for now, the Red Devils will feel that a win against Everton is a must if they’re to start reducing that gap. United also have an excellent record in this fixture and haven’t lost a home game against the Merseyside club since David Moyes was manager in 2013. Ten Hag has won all four previous meetings against Everton and United have lost just once in the last 11 encounters.
Sean Dyche’s side are also in horrendous form and haven’t won any of their last 10 Premier League. and head into this match just five points above the relegation zone.
It should, therefore, be a game United approach with optimism, but preparations for Saturday’s match are likely to be impacted by several injury concerns. United were without eight players for last week’s derby defeat and had to make two second-half substitutions due to knocks.
Ten Hag will most likely provide an injury update in his pre-match press conference. But ahead of the media briefing, here is the latest news on all 10 injury issues heading into the clash with Everton…
1. Aaron Wan-Bissaka - potential return day: 9 March
There has been little news on the defender since he was declared injured ahead of the Villa game three weeks ago. Wan-Bissaka, who has missed the last eight matches, could be back this weekend.
2. Harry Maguire - potential return day: 9 March
Has missed the last two matches but could be involved against Everton, according to reports this week.
3. Jonny Evans - potential return day: N/A
One of those who was replaced at the Etihad last week with a minor knock. Ten Hag said he is hopeful of the player being fit for Saturday.
4. Lisandro Martinez - potential return day: 7 April
Is not expected back until next month. Ten Hag hasn't provided an injury update on the player since the knee issue he is suffering from was announced in early February.