Erik ten Hag could be two games away from confirming his best Manchester United line up

Manchester United were hit harder than most when it came to injuries last season, while their fitness woes have continued since the restart. However, after a challenging opening stretch for that and other reasons, Erik ten Hag might finally be in a position to confirm his best starting XI sooner than expected.

With players dotted around the globe for various international commitments this week, the training pitch over at Carrington will be particularly sparse. The same cannot be said for their treatment room.

Summer signing Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Mason Mount and Rasmus Hojlund are still on the mend, and edging their way back to first-team contention. Some are naturally closer than others as United anticipate a significant double boost for their first game after the gap.

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"We have to see how it develops and how we can progress during the break to get match fit," said Ten Hag when he was pressed on Hojlund before the Liverpool defeat. The striker and England defender Shaw could return when United get down to business against Southampton at St Mary's on Saturday, September 14 (12.30pm).

"He returned on the pitch," continued Ten Hag. But it will take a while before he's up [to speed].

"Everyone has seen, it [the injury] happens in the first game [pre-season]. He needs also to build some fitness."

The same goes for Shaw. He has not appeared for United since February - though he did represent the Three Lions at Euro 2024 this summer - and remains an undoubted first choice at left-back despite selection concerns.

Shaw and Hojlund, even if they are passed fit,