Manchester United secured a vital 2-1 win over Brentford on Monday night, boosting their Champions League qualification hopes, but the victory was overshadowed by fresh injury concerns. Michael Carrick's side now face a crucial clash with Liverpool next weekend, and the interim boss will be hoping for positive news on several key players.
Matheus Cunha was a surprise absentee from the squad against Brentford due to a hip flexor injury picked up in the previous win over Chelsea. Carrick confirmed the issue is minor, saying: 'He just had a bit of a sore hip flexor... it is nothing too serious.' The Brazilian is expected to be in contention for the Liverpool match.
Luke Shaw was forced off in the second half against Brentford after going down off the ball. The left-back has enjoyed a relatively injury-free season, playing 34 matches, but his condition remains unclear. Carrick did not provide an update after the game, with further clarity expected later this week.
Matthijs de Ligt continues his recovery from a lower-back injury that has sidelined him since November. The Dutchman was pictured in training this week, captioning his Instagram post: 'Working hard, getting closer.' However, Carrick recently noted that De Ligt is not yet ready for grass work, and it remains uncertain whether he will feature again this season, with his World Cup hopes fading.
