Louis van Gaal confirmed that Van Persie is the only player definitely unavailable to play against Newcastle United.
Manchester United travel to face Newcastle United on Wednesday in a mid-week Premier League fixture.
Ahead of the game against Newcastle United, Louis Van Gaal confirmed that everyone except Robin van Persie is available for selection though he also said that Michael Carrick is not yet ready to start a game. However, the midfielder might make an appearance from the bench and earn 20 minutes or so, on the pitch.
Speaking about the midfielder, Van Gaal said: a I think it is too early for Michael Carrick. He trained now in three training sessions with us. Because of the three players I didn’t bring with us [against Sunderland], he was in the 18 and I took a risk with that. As a substitute, you can play 20 minutes, which he can do. He has the experience so I can make an exception. He is also a captain, so I can make an exception but it is not often I do that.a
Phil Jones, Luke Shaw and Victor Valdes sat out Manchester Uniteda s victory against Sunderland and are in contention for a starting place on Wednesday. Speaking about the trioa s chances of featuring against Newcastle United, Van Gaal said: a It is difficult to say as, in every training session, you can be injured or the fatigue specialist can say he is not fit enough to play a game,” explained van Gaal. “And then I have to decide not to use that player. So it’s always difficult to say but the only injured player is van Persie.a
When asked about how long it will take for Van Persie to return to fitness, the Manchester United manager said: a It is too quick to say anything about that.a
It is highly unlikely that Valdes will start the game ahead of De Gea considering the lattera s form. In the defence, Phil Jones might start the game ahead of Evans or Smalling. Luke Shaw is also expected to start after sitting out the victory against Sunderland.
In the midfield, Fellaini might get the nod ahead of Herrera while Blind is the favourite to start in the deeper role. Angel Di Maria might have to sit out this one or come on as a substitute after his disappointing performance at the weekend against Sunderland. Januzaj or Mata are expected to start ahead of the Argentine.