Manchester United expect to remain without Anthony Martial, Antony and Scott McTominay for their huge Europa League first-leg showdown with Barcelona next week.
All three players are set to sit out again as the Red Devils face managerless rivals Leeds in the Premier League for the second time in the space of five days at Elland Road on Sunday following a lively four-goal Old Trafford draw in midweek.
And manager Erik ten Hag does not expect any to prove their fitness in time for next Thursday (February 16), when his side travel to the Camp Nou for the opening instalment of their knockout round play-off tie.
“The last (three) I don’t expect but we have some days obviously,” Ten Hag said of Martial, Antony and McTominay ahead of another meeting with Leeds.
Pressed on if any would be available for the clash with Barcelona, the Dutchman added: “I think the same answer. I can’t say for 100 per cent but I don’t expect it.”
Martial has not played since scoring the opening goal in United’s 2-0 Carabao Cup semi-final second-leg victory over Nottingham Forest at the start of the month, battling a hip problem as his injury-plagued season continues.
£86million summer signing Antony has a leg issue after last featuring in the fiery 2-1 win over Crystal Palace last week, while midfielder McTominay has not played since the 3-2 defeat at Arsenal on January 22.
The Scottish international’s absence leaves Ten Hag notably light on midfield options, with Christian Eriksen ruled out until late April at the earliest with an ankle injury sustained during a wild tackle from Andy Carroll in the recent FA Cup fourth-round win over Reading and Donny van de Beek not expected back this season after undergoing knee surgery following the win over Bournemouth last month.
Star midfielder Casemiro is suspended for matches against Leeds and Leicester after his red card for grabbing Will Hughes by the neck during a brawl in the win over Palace, but will return for the games against Barcelona and the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle at Wembley on February 26, having also sat out against Leeds on Wednesday.
Right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka also faces a late fitness test this weekend after missing the initial contest against Leeds through illness.
