Rashford and Martial return to training following injury, but Maguire will definitely miss the Manchester derby

Marcus Rashford and Anthony Martial have returned to training ahead of the Manchester derby but under-fire Harry Maguire will be absent – a player United boss Erik ten Hag is convinced will turn things around.

The improving Red Devils will this weekend play their first Premier League match since beating Arsenal 3-1 on 4 September after the Crystal Palace and Leeds fixtures were called off following the death of the Queen.

High-flying neighbours Manchester City are sure to provide a stern test for United, who go looking for a fifth successive Premier League victory without skipper Maguire in the squad.

The centre-back picked up a knock during the international break with England – a period that forwards Rashford and Martial spent working their way back to fitness.

"Harry Maguire is injured," Ten Hag said. "I think for the rest we have some doubts with Anthony Martial.

"But he was training all week with the group so I'm really happy with that situation. He’s performing really well in training, he makes a good impression.

"Rashford, he returns into training so also we are happy with that. For the rest, I think only the long-term injuries like Axel Tuanzebe and Brandon Williams are not available."

Maguire played the entirety of England’s loss to Italy last Friday before completing another 90 minutes against Germany, when he gave away a penalty and lost possession before the visitors’ second at Wembley.

That display led to renewed talk about Gareth Southgate’s loyalty to the 29-year-old, who has been out of form and favour at United this season.

But Ten Hag, like the England manager, retains faith in Maguire and certain he will improve.

"First of all, of course I have to coach him, I have to back him," the United boss said. "But I back