Erik ten Hag confirms two Man Utd stars have returned to training but one big doubt
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed that Raphael Varane and Victor Lindelof have reported for training ahead of the final game of the Premier League season at Brighton & Hove Albion.
The Red Devils returned to winning ways with a 3-2 victory over Newcastle United last night. The result has put them level on points with the Magpies in seventh, but the latter have a superior goal difference.
United’s chances of qualifying for the Conference League could depend on the Magpies dropping points this weekend. Ahead of the South Coast trip to face Brighton on Sunday, Ten Hag has provided some good news on the injury front.
The Dutchman revealed that Varane and Lindelof have returned to the training pitch and they will be assessed ahead of Sunday’s game, he told Manutd.com: “We have seen yesterday Licha Martinez [is back], he had a good session now as well.”
“There were also others on the pitch like Rapha Varane, Victor Lindelof, they returned on the pitch. We have to see how far [off a return] they are on Sunday. Tomorrow we have off, Saturday we have training, and then we will see what we have.”
Meanwhile, Ten Hag revealed that there is a fair chance that Harry Maguire could be available for the FA Cup final, but Luke Shaw is a major doubt after a setback in his recovery.
He added: “I think Harry Maguire, I think it’s a fair chance that he will be available. We plan [for] him.”
“Luke is more complicated. In this moment, let’s say it’s a less chance that he will make it. But there is still a very small, reduced chance. He had a setback, now we have to find out how far [from a return] he is.”
United have had a disappointing campaign thus far, but they could end the season on a high note.
A victory over the Seagulls on the road could secure European football if the Magpies were to drop points against Brentford at the Gtech Community Stadium at the weekend.
They would have another chance in the FA Cup final. United can secure a second major trophy under Ten Hag if they manage to beat Manchester City at the Wembley Stadium.
A win over their arch-rivals would also guarantee a spot in the Europa League group stage.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com