Manchester United XI vs Middlesbrough: Predicted lineup, confirmed team news, injury and Covid latest - FA Cup

Paul Pogba could make his long-awaited return to action when Manchester United play Middlesbrough in the FA Cup on Friday night.

Pogba has not played since November due to a thigh injury but Ralf Rangnick has confirmed the midfielder is available for the fourth-round tie at Old Trafford.

“Paul will be part of the group,” said Rangnick on Thursday. “He might even be in the starting XI.”

After having a deadline-day exit blocked by United, Jesse Lingard will not feature after being granted some time off to “clear his mind”

Rangnick said: “He asked me and the club could I give him a couple of days off just to clear up his mind. He will be in the group next Monday and then be a regular part of the squad again.”

Edinson Cavani will not feature after being given extra time off following international duty with Uruguay, while Victor Lindelof misses out through illness and Eric Bailly has an ankle issue.

Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Luke Shaw and Jadon Sancho are all available to return.

Man United predicted XI (4-2-2-2) De Gea; Dalot, Varane, Maguire, Shaw; McTominay, Pogba; Sancho, Elanga; Ronaldo, Fernandes

TV channel: ITV 1 and STV.

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