Erik ten Hag hoping key Manchester United 'difficulty' solved as Brighton issue Evan Ferguson transfer update

Manchester United kick off a hectic winter schedule on Sunday when they face Everton at Goodison Park.

Erik ten Hag's international Reds were away representing their nations for the third time this season over the past fortnight, while the Dutchman remained at Carrington to prepare a crucial period in United's campaign. Following Sunday's trip to Merseyside, the Reds have a crucial Champions League clash at Galatasaray.

United were boosted by the return of Luke Shaw to training on Wednesday, the left-back having been absent with a muscular issue since August. Lisandro Martinez was also on the grass at Carrington, if only to watch his teammates prepare for the weekend.

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Erik ten Hag hopes to have a more stable squad to pick from throughout the winter period after falling victim to endless injury issues throughout the season so far.

Manchester United have been incredibly unfortunate with injuries since the campaign kicked off, losing the likes of Luke Shaw, Lisandro Martinez and summer signing Rasmus Hojlund to long-term injuries. Ten Hag has often been forced into making multiple changes from game to game and form has suffered as a result.

United have endured a torrid start to the season, losing nine of their opening 18 matches across all competitions. They face a huge task progressing in their Champions League group and are far adrift of the Premier League's top four.

But after two weeks of international football United welcomed Shaw back into training and, apart from Andre Onana, look to have