How Manchester United could line-up vs Brentford after Kobbie Mainoo injury blow

Erik ten Hag will give an update on Kobbie Mainoo in Friday’s press conference, but the Manchester United midfielder is expected to be sidelined for a number of weeks.

The 19-year-old withdrew from England duty this international break through injury and club media have indicated that his muscle problem could rule him out for a number of games. The same applies to Harry Maguire, who sustained his muscle issue against Aston Villa.

Manuel Ugarte is another concern after he was taken off in Uruguay’s goalless draw with Ecuador on Wednesday after appearing to sustain a knock. Mason Mount is meanwhile still recovering from setbacks picked up against Tottenham last month.

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There is better news regarding three other players. Alejandro Garnacho, Noussair Mazraoui and Amad all took part in group training on Thursday after being ruled out of international duty.

Tyrell Malacia is nearing a return after an 18-month absence but, like fellow left-back Luke Shaw, will not be ready for Saturday’s clash with Brentford. As a result, United’s squad could be stretched with problems to solve regarding their line-up against the Bees.

Believe it or not, Andre Onana tops the Premier League clean sheet chart with four blanks to his name. He has been one of few United players to have built some credit this season. There’s no danger of him being dropped.

Mazraoui may have trained this week but his recent heart procedure still makes him a doubt for the cut-and-thrust of a match. In which case, there may be a bit of a rejig in defence.

Diogo Dalot will likely move