Ralf Rangnick has confirmed that Edinson Cavani and Nemanja Matic will miss Manchester United's game against Brighton & Hove Albion, casting doubt on their availability for their trip to Leeds United this weekend.
The Red Devils host Graham Potter's side on Tuesday night as they look to return to winning ways after drawing their last two Premier League matches - a 1-1 draw at Burnley and another stalemate with Southampton.
They currently sit fifth but could move back into the top-four with a win over the Seagulls, who have been in good form themselves and are unbeaten in the league since the turn of the year.
However, United do have a quick turnaround when they travel to Leeds for what is the first meeting between the two sides at Elland Road with a crowd since 2004 when the Whites were in the top-flight.
It's poised to be an important game and the Red Devils could be without Cavani after Rangnick revealed that the 35-year-old will be unavailable for the clash with Brighton due to a groin injury.
Matic, who has been out for the past couple of weeks, will also miss the game with a shin problem.
Cavani's absence could mean that Cristiano Ronaldo may be required to play the next two league games before the Champions League last-16 tie against Atletico Madrid.
Rangnick has the option to move Marcus Rashford into a more central role, while Bruno Fernandes has featured in a 'false nine' and these are all possible scenarios for the trip to Leeds.
Meanwhile, Fred will return to the United squad after the midfielder missed the last two games as he tested positive for Covid-19 at United's Carrington training complex last Monday.
"Yes, Fred will be available again and will also be part of the group for tomorrow," interim United manager Rangnick said. "Edinson is still out, the same with Nema.
"Alex [Telles] is back again in the squad - he was already part of the group for the Southampton game - and he will also be available."
