Need to know
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire is suspended for the club's match against Chelsea
Harry Maguire of Manchester United
Manchester United star Harry Maguire will not play against Chelsea(Image: Catherine Ivill - AMA, Getty Images)
Everything you need to know about Harry Maguire's ban
Reason for the ban: Harry Maguire was dismissed for a professional foul on Evanilson during a 2-2 draw against Bournemouth on March 20. However, his current suspension relates to a subsequent FA charge for improper conduct after he allegedly directed abusive or insulting language at fourth official Matt Donohue while leaving the pitch.
Length of the suspension: The independent Regulatory Commission handed down an additional one-match ban on top of his original red card suspension. This means he has effectively been ruled out for two matches in total for the combined incidents, while also receiving a £30,000 fine for his outburst.
Return to action: Having already served the first portion of his suspension during the recent 2-1 defeat to Leeds United, the Chelsea fixture is the final game he must sit out. He is expected to return to the squad and be available for United's next Premier League match against Brentford.
Maguire's response: The defender opted to accept the charge of improper conduct rather than contest the FA's findings at a hearing. By admitting his guilt at an early stage, Maguire likely avoided a more severe multi-game penalty.
Club statement: Manchester United released a brief statement confirming that the defender had accepted the sanctions and would not be appealing the decision. The club said that the squad remained fully focused ahead of their journey to the capital.
Selection headaches: With Maguire suspended and Lisandro Martinez also banned following a red card against Leeds, manager Michael Carrick faces a significant dilemma. He may be forced to turn to youngster Ayden Heaven to plug the gap against Chelsea.
Importance of Chelsea game: Saturday's 8pm kick-off could prove pivotal to United's ambitions of securing a top-four finish and Champions League football. Sitting third in the table, the side will be eager to rebound from their recent disappointment against Leeds.
Wider context: A win at Stamford Bridge would maintain their advantage over the chasing pack, including Chelsea. However, a defeat would considerably reduce the current seven-point gap separating the two clubs.
READ MORE:Harry Maguire's eight-word outburst at fourth official as FA reveal reasons for Man United star's ban