Matheus Cunha and Luke Shaw remain doubts for Manchester United’s Premier League clash with Liverpool on Sunday, Michael Carrick confirmed.
Cunha was forced to take a seat out United’s 2-1 win over Brentford on account of a hip flexor issue, while Shaw was withdrawn midway through the second half after picking up a knock.
Pictures on Thursday showed Cunha back in first-team training, but Carrick said that the Brazilian, in addition to Shaw, still have work to do to prove their fitness ahead of Sunday’s game at Old Trafford.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Friday, Carrick said: ‘We’re in fine condition really. Matheus has done somewhat little bit of work, so we’re hopeful. We’re unsure but we’re hopeful.’
On Shaw, he added: ‘With Luke [Shaw], we aren’t sure if he can be ready but we’re hopeful.’
Elsewhere, Matthijs de Ligt stays sidelined along with his long-standing back issue, while Patrick Dorgu may very well be in line to feature after returning to the matchday squad against Brentford for the primary time since January.
Earlier on Friday, Liverpool boss Arne Slot confirmed that his side can be without Mohamed Salah, but will make a late call on goalkeeper Alisson.
Since arriving as interim head coach, Carrick has reeled off wins against Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea, and might now secure United’s spot in next season’s Champions League with one other big scalp on Sunday.
‘It’s definitely at all times been considered one of my favourite games, definitely. It’s a standout game,’ he said.
‘There are obviously big games and rivalries that now we have with other teams, but this one is definitely right up there due to the history, the ups and downs this match-up has produced up to now, the entertainment and the emotion. All of those things make it a very special game.
‘After I take into consideration this game, the very first thing that involves mind is that air of competition really, no matter league positions over time.
‘Things like which have never modified the emotion of the players and the supporters. I also really appreciate what it means to them.’
For more stories like this, check our sport page.
Follow Metro Sport for the most recent news on
Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.
MORE: Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber injury update ahead of Arsenal vs Fulham
MORE: ‘Higher fit’ – Fabio Capello suggestions £37m Man Utd star for summer transfer exit
MORE: Alan Shearer’s Premier League predictions including Man Utd vs Liverpool