Newcastle United's top-four rivals Manchester United have been rocked by a late double injury blow in their Europa League draw with Sevilla. First-choice central defenders Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane were forced off within a matter of minutes as the Red Devils squandered a two-goal advantage at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
Loanee Marcel Sabitzer's early double gave Erik Ten Hag's side the perfect start to the first leg of their quarter-final tie. However, the sides will go into the return encounter at Seville level after own goals from both Tyrell Malacia and Harry Maguire levelled the contest.
Marcus Rashford - who has been in blistering form since the World Cup break - was ruled out of the first-leg clash after picking up a knock in the home win over Everton. The England international is not expected to return for Sunday's trip to face Nottingham Forest, with Scott McTominay and Luke Shaw also considered injury doubts.
READ MORE: Newcastle's extra transfer incentive to make firesale a reality after £100m demand for duo
Ten Hag assuaged fears over Martinez suffering an Achilles injury in the draw with Sevilla. The summer signing was in clear distress as he was carried off by Gonzalo Montiel and Marcos Acuna in the 87th minute before requiring a stretcher.
Varane had already been forced off at half-time, playing through to the break after going down with a knock before being replaced by Maguire. The Red Devils boss confirmed it was an injury concern with the World Cup winner for several weeks, with an update on the former Real Madrid star's availability likely in Friday's press conference.
The latest injury concerns come at a time where Manchester United's schedule shows no signs of slowing down. Following the trip to Forest, the Carabao Cup winners face the return tie with Sevilla on Thursday night before returning to Wembley for an FA Cup semi-final against Brighton on Sunday.
READ NEXT
Newcastle have top four ace Liverpool loved as truth about his exit and new role is revealed
Newcastle make Financial Fair Play move that could save millions with six new 'innovative' hires
Newcastle set to announce first summer signing as goalkeeper confirms transfer
Sporting director confirms Newcastle target will be available on a free transfer this summer
Newcastle lover showed true colours while playing for Sunderland without crowd even knowing
