Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Paul Pogba is still facing a number of weeks on the sidelines as he continues to recover from a thigh injury.
The midfielder has missed the Red Devils' last five games in all competitions after limping off in the 3-3 draw with Everton on 6 February.
Pogba's thigh injury came as a major blow for United, as he had been in excellent form and had established himself as Solskjaer's go-to man in a number of midfield roles.
Last week, Solskjaer said the Frenchman would not return to contention this month but hinted he could return in early March.
But a fresh update by the United boss confirms Pogba is still some way from full fitness and will not be available until mid-March at the earliest.
"Paul is still out for a few weeks," Solskjaer told BT Sport after his side's 0-0 draw with Real Sociedad in the Europa League.
United's midfield options were further depleted as Daniel James picked up a knock against the Spanish side.
Which midfielder should Solskjaer turn to in Pogba's absence? Have your say in the comments.
But there is better news regarding injured trio Donny van de Beek, Edinson Cavani and Scott McTominay, with Solskjaer optimistic they can feature against Chelsea on Sunday.
"Scott, Donny, Edinson - we hope they can be available for the weekend," said Solskjaer. "We will have to check on him (James) tonight."
Midfielders Van de Beek and McTominay, and striker Cavani have missed United's last three matches.
Their respective returns to fitness would be timely, as the trip to west London is a vital one for the Red Devils in their search for a top-four finish.
Fifth-place Chelsea are also pushing for a Champions League spot and are undefeated in their six Premier League matches under manager Thomas Tuchel, who replaced Frank Lampard in the Stamford Bridge hot seat in January.
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