Erik ten Hag issues mixed Manchester United injury update as midfielder set to return

Erik ten Hag points out some instructions to Mason Mount ahead of stepping off the bench at Chelsea.
Erik ten Hag (right) could welcome Mason Mount back into his plans this weekend. -Credit:Robin Jones/Getty Images.


Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed Mason Mount could be available for Saturday's Premier League clash with Burnley at Old Trafford.

Mount, who joined United from Chelsea in July last year, has missed each of the Reds' last two matches after picking up an injury in the build-up to last weekend's FA Cup semi-final victory over Coventry City. His maiden season at OId Trafford has been plagued by injuries, restricting him to just 17 appearances in all competitions.

Mount, who has scored one goal this season, has not started for United since suffering a calf injury against Luton Town on November 11. He has made five substitute appearances since.

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However, that run of cameos from the bench was curtailed ahead of the clash with the Sky Blues. Nevertheless, he could return against Burnley this weekend.

Ten Hag, speaking to BBC Match of the Day after Wednesday night's 4-2 win over Sheffield United, said: "Mason Mount, he will return, I think."

However, the Dutchman is not expecting any of United's currently injured defenders to return in time for the visit of the Clarets. Centre-backs Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans and Willy Kambwala were all missing once again against the Blades, meaning Casemiro partnered Harry Maguire in the heart of the defence for the second game running.

Asked if any defenders will return for the clash with Vincent Kompany's side, Ten Hag added: "No, not yet. We have to be patient for it. For coming back for the game against Burnley, I don't expect [them]."

United, not for the first time in recent weeks, had to top up their bench with academy players on Wednesday evening, naming youngsters Louis Jackson, Habeeb Ogunneye, Harry Amass and Ethan Wheatley among the substitutes. The latter was given his senior debut in added time, replacing Rasmus Hojlund, meaning he became the club's 250th academy graduate in their history.