Anthony Martial will not be able to return for Manchester United on Wednesday night against Crystal Palace, as Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s squad struggles with as many as 10 players out injured.
Martial has been sidelined with a groin problem since the defeat to Paris Saint-Germain a fortnight ago and though he is recovering, he is unlikely to be risked at Selhurst Park.
The France international is joined on the sidelines by Ander Herrera, Juan Mata, Jesse Lingard and Marcus Rashford, after all four picked up injuries in Sunday’s draw with Liverpool.
Nemanja Matic is out of contention after suffering an injury in training last week, while Antonio Valencia, Matteo Darmian and Phil Jones are unavailable in defence.
“We’ve not had a session yet so I don’t think there are a lot of positives, no,” he said.
“I don’t know the list that’s supposed to be injured. Matteo [Darmian] trained the other day, I don’t think he’ll be ready.
“Marcos Rojo will be involved, Rashy we’re still waiting to see how his ankle is responding to the treatment, muscle injuries are too early to think about. That’s it.
“Martial is not going to be ready for this one, either, we can’t risk it. So maybe Southampton [on Saturday] but we’re not gonna risk anther one.”
Solskjaer plans to turn to United’s youth ranks for cover but Mason Greenwood, a promising young striker who would have featured, is also out injured.
Angel Gomes, James Garner and Tahith Chong have all been called up to United’s first-team squad to cover for those who are unavailable.
“The kids are joining in today. They’ll be involved in the squad,” Solskjaer confirmed. “They’ve been part of our training for a long time now.
“I’m sure Ange [Gomes], he’s been in that successful with England U17s, the 2000s team with [Jadon] Sancho, [Callum] Hudson-Odoi and that [Phil] Foden, he’s been a big part and definitely shown that if he gets a chance he’ll do well.
“Jimmy Garner is a Michael Carrick but 20 years younger, I’m sure he’ll do well and Chongy will be taking people on if he comes on.
“They’re ready, the kids, it’s a hard if you’re a defender coming as a 16- or 17-year-old but as an attacker you just go out there and express yourself, and there is your chance. They can win you the game not lose it for you.”
