Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has confirmed Michael Carrick is out, while Bastian Schweinsteiger is doubtful for the Red Devils’ upcoming crucial clash against Liverpool.
The Dutchman will take his men to Anfield for the Premier League clash on Sunday. The German international picked up an injury during the Old Trafford club’s 1-0 victory over Sheffield United and has not featured in his side’s 3-3 draw against Newcastle United.
Carrick last featured in United’s 2-1 victory over Swansea City as he came on as a late substitute against the Welsh club. He has not played since then and will miss the fixture against the Merseyside club due to injury.
With Carrick out, the England international now joins Marcos Rojo, Antonio Valencia and Luke Shaw in the treatment room. Phil Jones and Schweinsteiger are also doubtful for Liverpool tie over the weekend.
“I think we have the same injuries as before. Maybe Schweinsteiger is coming back but that is not sure. It is very tight to regain – he needs more time, I think,” Van Gaal explained.
“[Carrick] is also injured; we have forgotten to mention it but he was injured. He is still injured so he cannot play either. Jones is possible but [Marcos] Rojo, [Antonio] Valencia and [Luke] Shaw need a longer time. They are not ready yet.”
Adnan Januzaj returned to Old Trafford after his disappointing loan spell at Borussia Dortmund this month. United manager confirmed the Belgium international will be included in the squad for Liverpool tie and will be on the bench.
“We have taken no risk and we have built him up in our way of training sessions. Now he can be on the bench or he shall play in the second team,” United manager explained.
Van Gaal has never lost against Liverpool in all competitions, including the pre-season fixture before the start of the 2014-15 season. The last time these two teams met at Anfield saw the Red Devils seal a 2-1 win over Liverpool, with Juan Mata scoring both the goals to help his side seal three points.
The former Barcelona and Bayern Munich manager will be hoping his side can register another victory over United’s arch rivals when they face them on Sunday.
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