Manchester United are back in Premier League action this weekend when they travel to Sheffield United for an 8pm kick-off.
After such a disappointing start to the new campaign, Erik ten Hag will be hoping his side can build on the impressive injury-time comeback against Brentford two weeks ago. The United boss had plenty of injury issues to contend with for that encounter, and the Dutchman is in desperate need of more defensive options for this weekend’s match.
Raphael Varane and Sergio Reguilon both missed the Brentford game but Ten Hag confirmed they are available to return this weekend. Jonny Evans and Sofyan Amrabat have also suffered from knocks recently, but United confirmed they were involved in training on Thursday.
However, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain unavailable, with Casemiro a fresh absentee. The ex-Real Madrid picked up a knock while away with Brazil and has remained in his homeland for a few extra days.
It means Amrabat, McTominay, Christian Eriksen, Mason Mount, Hannibal and Bruno Fernandes are Ten Hag's midfield options this weekend, while the ex-Ajax boss may give an update on the injured Kobbie Mainoo in Friday’s press conference.
McTominay is a particularly interesting dilemma for Ten Hag, who rarely starts the Scotland international, but following his Brentford heroics it would be difficult to leave the 26-year-old out on Saturday.
The only other confirmed absentee for United is Jadon Sancho, who remains exiled by Ten Hag following the winger’s social media outburst in early September. Marcus Rashford, who has been out of form for United, scored for England on Tuesday night and might just keep his starting place at club level, despite recent impressive cameos from Alejandro Garnacho.
Antony may be recalled out wide, although Fernandes could operate in that role, while Rasmus Hojlund and Anthony Martial are the main options to play at centre forward.
United have a huge Champions League encounter against Copenhagen on Tuesday which could influence Ten Hag’s decision-making this weekend, although he is still expected to name his strongest XI at Bramall Lane. Here’s how we think United will set up for the match...
1. GK: Andre Onana
It has been suggested that Ten Hag should consider dropping the error-prone keeper, but the Cameroon international will most likely keep his place.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
The Portugal international is likely to start given he is the only fit right-back at the club.
3. CB: Raphael Varane
Is again once again available following a minor knock that ruled him out against Brentford.
4. CB: Victor Lindelof
Likely to start above Harry Maguire, after what has been an understandably difficult week for the Sweden captain.