Manchester United suffered another injury blow as the club confirmed that Casemiro is not available to feature against Sheffield United on Saturday.
Article continues below
Article continues below
Article continues below
Midfielder injured on Brazil dutyHas stayed in his homeland to recoverAbsent for United's next two gamesWHAT HAPPENED?
The midfielder sustained an ankle knock while on international duty with Brazil, as coach Fernando Diniz confirmed he had asked to be taken off during the 1-1 draw against Venezuela last week.
The 31-year-old did not return to England to begin his recovery with United, but was advised by the club to remain in his homeland.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
Casemiro's absence is the latest of many to have hit Erik ten Hag's team. They are already without long-term absentees Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Amad Diallo.
However, Sergio Reguilon, Sofyan Amrabat, Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans were all present in training on Thursday despite recent struggles with fitness.
WHAT THEY SAID
As well as the weekend's tie, Casemiro will also be out for the midweek home match against Copenhagen in the Champions League because he is suspended.
"Casemiro was absent [from training], having remained in Brazil, on the club’s advice, to recover as swiftly as possible from a small issue picked up while playing for his country," an update on the club's website read.
"He will be unavailable for Saturday’s game with the Blades but is expected back at Carrington early next week to resume training, although he is suspended for the UEFA Champions League encounter with FC Copenhagen at Old Trafford, after being sent off in the defeat to Galatasaray."
GettyWHAT HAPPENS NEXT?
United visit Bramall Lane on Saturday to face Sheffield United. Ten Hag's team are looking to make it two straight wins after a late comeback secured a 2-1 win at home against Brentford in their last match.