Martinez, Fernandes, Rashford - Man United injury news and return dates for Newcastle clash
Manchester United have been handed a huge injury boost ahead of Wednesday night's Premier League clash with Newcastle United.
The Reds welcome Eddie Howe's men to Old Trafford knowing they must win if they are to keep their slim European football hopes alive. Ahead of the game, United are three points behind Chelsea and Newcastle in eighth and face missing out altogether.
On Sunday, Erik ten Hag's side responded to the 4-0 defeat to Crystal Palace with a better performance against Arsenal despite losing 1-0. Fortunately, United could take on Newcastle with a stronger squad.
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Should United beat Newcastle they will go into the final game of the season, against Brighton, level on points with the Magpies in the race for continental football. With that said, MEN Sport has taken a look at the latest from the treatment room.
Lisandro Martinez
Injury: Calf.
The centre back has not played since the 1-1 draw at Brentford at the end of March and has only managed just 11 appearances this season. However, Ten Hag has confirmed he will be in the squad today.
What Ten Hag has said: "Licha Martinez: I think he will return to the squad. He's done some sessions with us and we plan for him to be available if this afternoon everything goes right in training. He will return to the squad."
Possible return date: vs Newcastle United (May 15).
Bruno Fernandes
Injury: Hand.
The Portuguese was once again absent for United on Sunday, but there is hope he could return against Newcastle. Ten Hag insisted he will be assessed ahead of the clash.
What Ten Hag said: "For some other players we have to see: Rashford, Bruno, Willy Kambwala, if they are fit enough."
Possible return date: vs Newcastle United (May 15).
Marcus Rashford
Injury: Knock.
Rashford has been out of action for the last four games for United after picking up a knock in the FA Cup semi-final win over Coventry City.
What Erik ten Hag said: "For some other players we have to see: Rashford, Bruno, Willy Kambwala, if they are fit enough."
Possible return date: vs Newcastle United (May 15).
Luke Shaw
Injury: Muscle.
What Ten Hag said: "Luke Shaw had a setback in his process as well but there is still hope and he will fight to be available for the [FA Cup] final.
Possible return date: vs Manchester City (May 25).
Raphael Varane
Injury: Muscle.
Varane, who announced he will leave the club at the end of the season, could return against Brighton on Sunday.
What Ten Hag said: "We are planning, definitely, for the last games," Ten Hag said of Varane. "Not tomorrow but we hope for Sunday [vs Arsenal] and then, of course, for the last game."
Possible return date: vs Brighton (May 19)
Victor Lindelof
Injury: Hamstring.
It is unclear whether the Sweden international will return to action before the end of the season.
Possible return date: Unknown.
Harry Maguire
Injury: Muscle.
What Ten Hag said: "Harry has sustained a muscle injury that will keep him out for about three weeks."
Possible return date: vs Manchester City (May 25).
Tyrell Malacia
Injury: Knee.
What Ten Hag said: "I think it's going to be difficult for this season to be available. He will fight, he's back on the pitch, but not in the team and the process had some setbacks and is still going really slowly forward, and the season is going to an end."
Possible return date: Unknown.
Mason Mount
Injury: Unknown.
The 25-year-old has missed most of the campaign with a calf injury, but his problem this time around is unclear.
Possible return date: Unknown.
Anthony Martial
Injury: Groin.
The Frenchman has not played for United since December and has since undergone surgery on a groin issue.
What Ten Hag said: "Anthony was partly in the team training."
Possible return date: May.