Michael Carrick confirms two Man Utd starters are doubts for Chelsea clash | OneFootball

Manchester United are back in Premier League action this weekend and although much of the focus this week has been on identifying the club’s successor to Ole Gunnar Solskjaer, Michael Carrick is preparing the side for a crucial game against Chelsea.

Carrick took charge of the Reds for the first time earlier this week, overseeing a 2-0 win at Villarreal. The victory, United’s first in a Champions League away game since last season, confirmed their passage to the knockout rounds as group winners.

Ahead of this weekend’s clash at Stamford Bridge, Carrick has now confirmed that two regulars in the starting line-up are doubts for the 90-minute affair.

“We’ve got two or three different little issues where we’re waiting,” Carrick is quoted as saying by the official Manchester United website. “It’s never ideal. You want a full squad to pick from.

“There is one or two that we’re kind of waiting on. Luke took a bang on the head, we’re assessing him and we’ll make a call on how he is. Fred twisted his ankle. He managed to carry on and see the game out, which is pretty incredible. He played a big part in us winning.

“We’ll have to see how that works out. We’ll be strong and look forward to the game.”

Read more: (Video) “Unfortunately…” – Jurgen Klopp reacts to Ralf Rangnick’s imminent Man Utd move

Shaw missed the win at Villarreal after withdrawing from the game at Watford due to a head injury, whilst Fred rolled his ankle against Villarreal. On the other side, Chelsea could also be without two star players. Ben Chilwell and N’Golo Kante are both doubtful.

The game against Chelsea could prove to be Carrick’s final match in charge of the side, with Ralf Rangnick believed to be joining the club imminently. According to German journalist Patrick Berger, the 63-year-old will sign his contract early next week and be in place in time for the Arsenal game next Thursday.

SN’s verdict on Shaw and Fred potentially missing the game… In truth, Manchester United are huge underdogs in this weekend’s game and not many people are expecting them to beat top-of-the-table Chelsea. Shaw and Fred are, however, still crucial first-team players and their absence will show on the pitch.

Fred enjoyed one of his best performances of the season against Villarreal and Carrick will be desperate for the tenacious midfielder to be available.

Alex Telles was also impressive and Shaw’s injury could open up an avenue for the Brazil international to impress in the Premier League, with a new manager set to walk through the doors sooner rather than later.