Manchester United have a blockbuster game to resume our Premier League programme, as the derby at the Etihad Stadium against City provides another stern test for Erik ten Hag’s men.
The Reds take on the unbeaten Blues on their home patch in a first outing in the division since 4 September, hoping there will be no rustiness after the break. The big question is whether everybody has returned unscathed from international duty.
Martin Dubravka was forced to withdraw from the Slovakia squad due to injury, while Harry Maguire was clearly limping at the end of England’s exciting 3-3 draw with Germany at Wembley.
Scott McTominay missed Scotland’s group-winning draw against Ukraine but that was due to suspension and he has been back in training at Carrington already.
WHO WILL START AGAINST CITY? ADCARD
Strikers Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have been out injured and we await updates from Erik ten Hag on the pair during Friday’s press conference to preview the game.
Cristiano Ronaldo was charged by the Football Association following an alleged incident at the end of last season’s league game at Everton, but is set to be available for the derby.
Donny van de Beek has had a knock and, again, we will see if there is any report on his current situation.
CITY’S TEAM NEWS
John Stones looks set to miss out after suffering a hamstring problem while on England duty.
The defender has been operating at right-back this term but his absence could be partially offset by the return of Aymeric Laporte, who is reportedly close to a comeback after a lay-off with a knee injury.
Kalvin Phillips is definitely sidelined after shoulder surgery.
