Andre Onana could be back earlier than expected but it's not good news for Manchester United

Andre Onana was furious not to start for Cameroon in their opening game of the Africa Cup of Nations. Cameroon might be furious that he did start their second.

The Manchester United goalkeeper reclaimed his starting role at international level for their vital clash with reigning champions Senegal on Friday and produced a concerning performance that leaves their qualification hopes teetering on the edge.

Cameroon sit third in Group C and must defeat Gambia in their final match next Tuesday to have any hopes of reaching the knockout stages of a competition they really dreamed of winning.

MOST READ: United transfer decision is more bad news for Antony

RATINGS: How the United players have rated so far this season

Even then, it is out of their hands. A victory could be enough to secure the second spot ahead of Guinea but it would depend on results elsewhere. Most likely, they would have to hope they are one of the best third-place finishers to sneak a way into the next round.

United will be wishing Onana all the best for that pivotal clash on Tuesday, but deep down, it is quite clear that they would like him back sooner rather than later.

Altay Bayindir has been talked up as a replacement for him, though it was damning that United fought so hard to keep Onana for the recent matches with Wigan and Tottenham if the Turkish 'keeper is really as good as they say he is.

If indeed Cameroon are not knocked out early next week, Onana would be back in time for the trip to face Newport County, though Erik ten Hag might want to give him a few days of rest after a worrying run of form.

Onana looked to have made real progress at United but has regressed in recent weeks. He was poor for both of the Tottenham goals in their 2-2 draw