Jonny Evans will return to the Manchester United starting lineup against Nottingham Forest in the FA Cup fifth round on Wednesday.
Manchester United will aim to reach the FA Cup quarter-finals when they lock horns with Nottingham Forest at the City Ground in the fifth round on Wednesday evening. But Erik ten Hag has new injury concerns hampering his preparations ahead of his side’s latest fixture.
Harry Maguire is the latest absentee, with the Englishman picking up a knock in the Premier League clash with Fulham this past weekend. In addition, Raphael Varane and Bruno Fernandes are doubtful to take on Nottingham Forest.
But there is some good news, with ten Hag confirming that Casemiro and Victor Lindelof are fit and available for the midfield FA Cup clash. But Luke Shaw (hamstring), Lisandro Martinez (knee), Aaron Wan-Bissaka (knock), Tyrell Malacia (knee), Mason Mount (calf), Anthony Martial (groin), and Rasmus Hojlund (muscle injury) remain in the treatment room.
The Dutch tactician provided an update on Casemiro during his pre-match press conference. The Manchester United boss said, “So it was bleeding, so he [Casemiro] had to come off. It was not to our advantage that he couldn’t continue the game. But he’s available for tomorrow.”
Erik ten Hag revealed more fitness updates on his squad during a chat with the Manchester United media. Speaking on Maguire, Varane, and Bruno Fernandes, he said, “We have some question marks in our squad. Harry Maguire will not be available. Bruno is doubtful. Also Rapha Varane is doubtful.”
With Maguire unavailable and Varane doubtful to start, the central defensive unit might have a new look. Willy Kambwala and Victor Lindelof can deputise for Varane, while Jonny Evans will replace Maguire. If Lindelof starts as a centre-back, Sofyan Amrabat will take his spot as the left-back. Diogo Dalot should retain his spot on the right flank, as should Andre Onana between the sticks.
As for the midfield unit, Scott McTominay should replace Casemiro as Kobbie Mainoo’s partner in the double pivot, even though the Brazilian international is available to take on Nottingham Forest. Christian Eriksen or Amad Diallo will deputise for Bruno Fernandes if he is not fit enough to start. Finally, Alejandro Garnacho, Marcus Rashford, and Omari Forson should retain their spots in the offensive trifecta.
Predicted Manchester United XI: Onana; Dalot, Varane, Evans, Lindelof; McTominay, Mainoo; Garnacho, Bruno Fernandes, Rashford; Forson
