Why Scott McTominay missed Man Utd win over Reading in the FA Cup

Scott McTominay was a surprise absentee for Manchester United when the teamsheets were announced ahead of their FA Cup game against Reading on Saturday night.

The Red Devils progressed to the fifth round thanks to a 3-1 win over Reading, with Casemiro’s brace getting the Red Devils going after the break, while Fred grabbed a third soon after. Amadou Mbengue headed in a late goal for the Royals, but it didn’t prove enough to get them back into the tie.

United’s win was secured thanks in part to a commanding midfield display, although it was a surprise to see both Casemiro and Christian Eriksen start in the midst of a busy fixture schedule for the Red Devils. McTominay was predicted to play ahead of the game, but Erik ten Hag explained prior to kick-off at Old Trafford that he missed out with a minor knock.

“Luke [Shaw] is ill and Scott has a small problem,” he told MUTV. “We don’t want to take risks, so I hope they can be back on Wednesday but I’m not sure.”

Shaw’s omission was less of a shock given he was ruled out of Wednesday’s Carabao Cup win over Nottingham Forest through illness, while Diogo Dalot and Anthony Martial weren’t involved due to injury.

Ten Hag had been vague in the build-up to the game whether Jadon Sancho would be involved, but he missed out again. The winger’s return is expected soon as he’s been back in training following a lengthy lay-off.

But the minor injury for McTominay is a blow given his lack of game time in recent weeks. He’s started just five of the 11 matches since the World Cup with only one - the loss to Arsenal - coming in the Premier League. The Scotland international has been linked with a January move away from the club but is expected to remain with United until at least the summer.