Anthony Martial starts but Bruno Fernandes replaced in Man United predicted line-up vs Tottenham

Erik ten Hag has admitted that Bruno Fernandes is a "question mark" for Thursday's trip to Tottenham and the Manchester United boss is not expected to risk his talisman.

United can take another huge step forward in the top-four race with victory in north London, knowing three points would leave them eight points clear of fifth-placed Aston Villa with two games in hand. But they will face a Tottenham side reeling from last weekend's 6-1 defeat at Newcastle and keen to prove a point.

Ten Hag has been sweating on the fitness of Fernandes since he suffered an ankle injury in the FA Cup semi-final win over Brighton. Pictures of the midfielder in a protective boot raised concerns over his availability for the run-in.

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Fernandes was spotted on crutches but in his pre-Spurs press conference, Ten Hag alleviated fears of a long-term absence by revealing he is doubtful for Thursday's clash. But with such a crucial run of games to come, the Reds boss is expected to play safe.

That will likely mean Fernandes misses a first game through injury in his entire career, with Marcel Sabitzer brought in to replace him ahead of Christian Eriksen and Casemiro.

In front of that trio, Anthony Martial is expected to lead the line, having been substituted inside normal time at Wembley and allowed sufficient rest. The Frenchman is United's fourth-highest scorer this season with seven goals despite playing just 1,067 minutes - the equivalent of less than 12 full matches.

In the wide areas, Ten Hag's decision has been made for him with top-scorer Marcus Rashford and the in-form Antony nailing down the left and right wings respectively.

Harry Maguire will be available for selection again following his