Erik ten Hag will be hoping to have some of his injured Manchester United players back for Saturday’s trip to Burnley.
Raphael Varane, Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo, Sofyan Amrabat and Mason Mount were all involved in training this week before the Bayern Munich match, although none of the quintet were deemed fit enough to make the trip to Germany. In Friday's pre-match press conference Ten Hag hinted that four of those - Mainoo being the exception - could be in contention to feature at Turf Moor.
Elsewhere, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Amad are still out through injury, while Jadon Sancho and Antony are not available for the foreseeable future. United’s selection issues were laid bare ahead of the Bayern loss, with the Red Devils only able to name a travelling squad of 21, which included four goalkeepers.
As a result of the plethora of absentees, Ten Hag handed Facundo Pellistri just a second-ever start for the club on Wednesday. The Uruguayan had a mixed night and, while he didn’t produce any moments of real quality, also didn’t look out of his depth.
If Ten Hag were to make alterations to his team for the clash at Burnley, Alejandro Garnacho or Anthony Martial are options in the attacking areas, while Scott McTominay and Hannibal offer alternatives in midfield.
The latter scored in last week’s disappointing 3-1 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion, which means United have, for the first time ever, lost three of their opening five matches in a Premier League season. Ten Hag will be hoping for an improved display at the weekend, and here’s how the United boss could line up against Burnley…
1. GK: Andre Onana
Had another disappointing display in midweek, and the goalkeeper will be looking for an improved performance on Saturday.
2. RB: Diogo Dalot
Was one of United’s better performers in Germany, and is the only fit right-back in Ten Hag’s squad.
3. CB: Victor Lindelof
Hasn’t played well since returning to the team, and Varane might replace the Swedish defender, if he is deemed fit enough to start.
4. CB: Lisandro Martinez
Hasn’t returned to his best form after a slow start to the campaign.