Manchester United face Leeds United at Old Trafford in a heated grudge match on Monday evening, but Michael Carrick will be without a number of first-team players
Michael Carrick gestures
Michael Carrick has spoken about player injuries ahead of Man United's clash with Leeds(Image: Offside via Getty Images)
View Image
Manchester United will be without a number of first-team stars when they face Leeds United on Monday evening. The pair of long-time rivals are set to do battle in a grudge match at Old Trafford.
While the two may not be neighbouring cities, each clash between them proves just as heated as the north London Derby, the Tyne-Wear Derby and the Old Firm. Therefore, it's instrumental that Michael Carrick has his best players available for the outing, with more on the line than just three points.
Unfortunately for the interim head coach, he will be forced to navigate a number of player injuries when the 8pm kick-off unfurls in Greater Manchester, with a host of talent sidelined through various issues. Harry Maguire will also miss the clash as a result of his red card against Bournemouth ahead of the international break.
Here, breaks down all of Manchester United's current injuries, and when players should return to action...
Lisandro Martinez
Lisandro Martinez has not featured for United since the club's 1-1 draw with West Ham in February, owing to a hamstring issue. However, the centre-half could be set to feature against Leeds as his recovery comes to an end.
Speaking about Martinez during his press conference this week, Carrick said: "It's just that call that we make. We wouldn't be pushed into anything. I think it's important that the boys are ready.
"It's as important as the next game always is, being the most important is the bigger picture. So that's a decision that we'll take. He's back training, which is great, and back on the grass.
"But we've certainly got to make the right decision and make sure he's ready. We've spoken a lot about that, he's still in."
Potential return date: Monday, April 13 vs Leeds United
*FOLLOW OUR MAN UNITED FB PAGE!Latest news and analysis via the MEN’s Manchester United Facebook page*
Matthijs De Ligt
Matthijs De Ligt has been out of action since November due to a back injury, and unfortunately, it doesn't appear that Monday night's clash will mark his return. Carrick explained: "Just treatment and rehab. The reason he didn't come, he's not quite on the grass."
He added: "Patrick [Dorgu] came with us and Pat's at that stage a little bit further on. Matta's not quite at that stage yet, so it was important for him to... to continue his rehab really and try and get him back there's nothing else really around it."
Potential return date: Unknown
Patrick Dorgu
While Patrick Dorgu attended Manchester United's recent training camp in the Republic of Ireland, he is still a little while away from returning to competitive football. The Danish star has not featured for United since picking up his own hamstring injury during January's 3-2 win over Arsenal.
Potential return date: Unknown
Diogo Dalot
While Diogo Dalot missed United's recent camp due to illness, he should be available for selection for Monday night's Premier League fixture.
Potential return date: Monday, April 13 vs Leeds United