Michael Carrick is expected to hand Matthijs de Ligt his first start since recovering from a back injury as Manchester United prepare to face Como in the Champions League on Wednesday evening.
The United manager confirmed that Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven have been ruled out of the clash in Italy, leaving the club's defensive options severely depleted.
Defensive Crisis Deepens
Martinez failed to recover from the knock he sustained against Leeds in time for the trip, while Heaven has not recovered from the sickness that ruled him out at Elland Road. Leny Yoro is also unavailable due to suspension after his sending off against Atletico Madrid last week.
De Ligt has not played since picking up a back injury against Crystal Palace on November 30. The Dutchman required surgery earlier this year and has only recently returned to full fitness.
Carrick Confident in De Ligt
"It's great to have him back," said Carrick. "He's had such a long journey, 11 months or so. He's been patient and has worked hard. We're delighted to have him back, he's ready."
Harry Maguire is the only other senior centre-back available, making him a certain starter, while Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui are the only fit full-backs, guaranteeing their places in the team.
Looking for a Win
United could only manage a point against Leeds last weekend, extending their winless run to six games, but Carrick described the performance as a "fresh start", hinting a similar XI will be selected against Como.
The predicted United XI is: Lammens, Dalot, Maguire, De Ligt, Mazraoui, Santos, Baleba, Tielemans, Amad, Mbeumo, Fernandes.
