Manchester United could be without 10 first-team players when they take on Wigan Athletic tonight. News of an injury crisis will hardly come as a surprise to United fans as Erik ten Hag has struggled for numbers throughout the campaign. Lengthy absentees has been one of the key reasons behind the Red Devils' demise in 2023-24.
Regardless of how the treatment table looks, United will be aiming to advance to the FA Cup fourth round with a convincing win over the Latics. Wigan sit 18th in League One and have won just once against United in their history - losing on the other 18 occasions.
Jose Mourinho led the Red Devils to victory over Wigan at Old Trafford in this competition seven years ago and the visitors will be aiming to replicate that feat this evening. But they must do so without several key stars.
Despite the setbacks, Ten Hag is still expected to field a side capable of dumping out a team two divisions below them in the pyramid. The FA Cup also appears United's most plausible way to win a trophy, having finished as runners-up to Manchester City last season. Ahead of the trip to the DW Stadium, Manchester World has profiled Ten Hag's absentee list and when he can expect players to return.
1. Casemiro (Hamstring)
Another player who has missed large chunks of the season, Casemiro will miss the Wigan game but could be back at some point this month. Expected return: January 14
2. Harry Maguire (Unknown)
It would be a surprise to see Maguire named on the team sheet tonight. He has not featured since the Champions League exit but is not expected to be a long-term absentee. Expected return: February 1
3. Rasmus Hojlund (Illness)
After scoring a Boxing Day winner, the Dane missed the defeat to Nottingham Forest through illness. He should be back tonight. Expected return: January 8
4. Victor Lindelof (Groin)
The Swede is recovering from surgery and could be fit to face Tottenham Hotspur next week. Expected return: January 14