Man United could have themselves a fresh injury worry ahead of their Premier League clash with AFC Bournemouth on Saturday evening.

Manchester United return to Premier League action on Saturday evening with the threat of this season fizzling out looming large.

While the 2-2 draw with Liverpool on Sunday was respectable, it is unlikely to do much for their ambitions to qualify for the Champions League next season. United are 11 points behind Aston Villa and Tottenham Hotspur who are battling it out for the final remaining spots in the elite competition.

For Erik ten Hag, the best he can hope for is qualification for the Europa League and winning the FA Cup this season. As we have known for some time, the prestigious domestic cup competition represents United’s best chance of winning silverware and while Championship club Coventry City should not be underestimated, fans will expect to see their team face either Manchester City or Chelsea in the final.

Despite the Premier League taking a back seat this season, Ten Hag is eager to witness positive signs from United as they journey to the South Coast this weekend. AFC Bournemouth has had a commendable season and has established themselves as formidable opponents on their home turf throughout the campaign.

A triumph against the Cherries is hoped to widen the gap between United and their pursuers, steering clear of the potential embarrassment of participating in the Europa Conference League next season. However, if the Reds are to secure victory on Saturday, they might have to do so without Marcus Rashford.

As we delve into the intricacies of the latest training session, MEN Sport elaborates on why Ten Hag is apprehensive about the fitness of his winger.

No Marcus Rashford

The English player is in disastrous form

The United winger was substituted during the draw with Liverpool on Sunday, but Ten Hag remained optimistic that it wasn’t a significant concern. Rashford tried to reassure fans after the match by stating he would be fine after being substituted, but he was absent as the entire first team trained at Carrington.

Amad pushing to replace Rashford

Following his standout performance against Liverpool, Amad has patiently awaited another opportunity. Rashford’s injury might present the Ivorian with a chance in the starting XI, but Antony’s recent resurgence in form could potentially thwart his aspirations. Additionally, the former Ajax player was captured in training on Wednesday.

Willy Kambwala is in line for another start

Given United’s defensive injury concerns, Kambwala was tasked with partnering Harry Maguire in the backline against Liverpool. The Frenchman delivered a confident performance and is expected to be called upon again this weekend, as Raphael Varane, Lisandro Martinez, and Jonny Evans remain sidelined.

Next United Academy star given chance to impress

Following Kobbie Mainoo’s seamless transition to the first team and Kambwala beginning to make a name for himself in the United XI, fans are desperate to see which youngster will be given a chance yet. No player has impressed supporters on social media more than Shea Lacey who, at 16, already looks to be a special talent for the future. He was put through his paces with the first team on Wednesday which could suggest he will be introduced at some stage soon.