Manchester United could do with an attacking spark against CSKA Moscow, so news that Memphis Depay will not return is inconvenient, to say the least.
With Memphis sidelined, it could mean Anthony Martial is sent out as a left winger again despite Louis van Gaal admitting the Frenchman’s future lies up front.
Van Gaal’s side have not scored a goal in over five hours but, at the same time, have looked defensively solid.
The Dutchman will be pleased, then, to have two more defensive options back for the 7:45pm kick-off at Old Trafford. Phil Jones is fit again and will, most likely, take the bench spot occupied by 17-year-old Axel Tuanzebe for Saturday’s 0-0 draw with Crystal Palace.
“Phil has replaced him,” said van Gaal, “and Phil is returning in the selection, so my preference is for him.
“Every player needs a boost when he is out of the team and Memphis is not an exception. The consequence of not being in the [Dutch] national selection is because he is not playing that well.
“It is always the same – a player always has to perform well, otherwise there will be other players compared and the coach will make a choice.”
Morgan Schneiderlin is also back, to screen the back four from midfield, if van Gaal needs him.
“Morgan had private reasons to be excused [from training] and I accepted his reasons,” the manager said.
