Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has delivered a crucial team news update ahead of Saturday’s Premier League showdown with Chelsea at Stamford Bridge.
Carrick has confirmed that Kobbie Mainoo will be available for the trip to west London, providing United with a timely boost.
However, the United head coach also revealed that Benjamin Sesko is facing an extended spell on the sidelines due to a shin injury.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference, Carrick said: “Kobbie did a little bit of training yesterday. So, he’s back and around the group, so that’s obviously positive
“Unfortunately, Ben looks like he’s going to be out for a period of time. We’re still not clear on exactly how long, but it’s going to be for a longer period of time.”
Carrick offered no further update on the availability of Marcus Rashford and Patrick Dorgu during the first part of his pre-match press conference.
Rashford has missed United’s last two games with a hip injury that he has been managing since the World Cup.
The forward took part in a gym session this week, but it remains to be seen whether he will recover in time to feature against Chelsea.
Luke Shaw was absent from first-team training, making his involvement at Stamford Bridge appear increasingly unlikely.
Patrick Dorgu sustained a hamstring injury during the international break and is expected to miss the upcoming fixture.
Manuel Ugarte will continue his recovery from the knee surgery he underwent in May.
United have won just two of their 12 games this season, leaving Carrick under mounting pressure.
The 45-year-old was widely expected to lose his job following the humiliating defeat to Bournemouth, but the club’s hierarchy have given him another opportunity to revive their struggling campaign.
United must raise their performance levels considerably if they are to leave west London with all three points.
Stats from Fotmob.com