Michael Carrick says Mason Mount is edging “closer” to a return for Manchester United, but Monday’s trip to Everton will come too soon.
The midfielder last appeared in a squad against Arsenal at the Emirates Stadium in January, but suffered a training knock before facing Fulham and has missed every match since.
Head coach Carrick will be without Mount for visit to the Hill Dickinson Stadium, along with De Ligt who is struggling with a back injury.
De Ligt continues recovering after last playing against Crystal Palace on November 30, while Patrick Dorgu, another absentee, strained his hamstring against Arsenal and has spent time in Dubai to recuperate.
Carrick stressed patience, explaining Mount is close but must return fully fit, whereas De Ligt still trails behind in recovery.
Mount previously managed fourteen straight appearances from September to December, scoring against Sunderland, Palace and Wolves, while De Ligt has now missed more than three months after previously playing every Premier League minute.
Read More
Liverpool XI vs Nottingham Forest: Confirmed team news, predicted lineup
Man Utd chief Ratcliffe avoids FA charge over anti-immigration remarks
Carrick reiterates Man Utd 'responsibility' after Ratcliffe remarks
Rediscover your adventurous side on an exotic getaway
It leaves Carrick with few options to mix his team selection up. After almost two weeks without a game, the head coach is likely to stick with what he knows.
That means Benjamin Sesko will likely remain on the bench, while Bryan Mbeumo leading the line behind Matheus Cunha, Amad Diallo and Bruno Fernandes.
Kobbie Mainoo and Casemiro should keep their place. One possible change could see Leny Yoro come into defence.
Predicted Man Utd XI: Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Mainoo, Casemiro; Diallo, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo
Injured: Mount, De Ligt, Dorgui
Time and date: 9pm GMT on Monday, February 23, 2026
Venue: Hill Dickinson Stadium
How to watch: Sky Sports