Erik ten Hag will be without seven Manchester United players for Thursday’s Europa League second leg against Sevilla, but he’s been boosted by the return of four first-team members
The sides drew 2-2 in the first quarter-final meeting at Old Trafford last week, in what turned into a nightmare ending for the hosts. United had led by two goals in the latter stages, only to net two own-goals and lose Lisandro Martinez to a metatarsal injury that will prevent him playing again this season.
Raphael Varane also picked up an injury last Thursday which will rule him out of the second leg, while Bruno Fernandes’ booking will see him miss just a third match of the season for the Red Devils. Scott McTominay is also an injury doubt ahead of the second leg due to injury, while Tom Heaton, Donny van de Beek and Alejandro Garnacho remain on the sidelines.
However, there was better news on Wednesday with Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Marcel Sabitzer and Marcus Rashford all back in training and named in the travelling. The quartet missed the weekend win over Nottingham Forest, and it’s unclear if all four will be fit enough to start on Thursday.
However, Ten Hag said the returnees will be able to play at some point. “They are available because that’s why they’re on the airplane,” he explained.
“I will take my decisions tomorrow, today we trained and we will see what the reaction is and then tomorrow we will take a decision. You always want to keep players fit, which is the main objective, besides of course the main objective: win the game.”
Here’s how we think the Red Devils will line up for the second leg…
1. GK: David de Gea
Kept another clean sheet at the weekend and is in good form.
2. RB: Aaron Wan-Bissaka
Forced his way back into Ten Hag’s plans but may need to offer more going forward against Sevilla. Diogo Dalot is another option.
3. CB: Harry Maguire
Had a tough afternoon in Nottingham and will captain the side on Thursday.
4. CB: Victor Lindelof
Has tended to do well when called upon this campaign.