Erik ten Hag says he does not expect Manchester United left-backs Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia to return before the October international break.
Shaw has not played for United this season because of a calf injury while Malacia has not played since undergoing surgery on a knee meniscus injury in the summer of 2023.
Ten Hag, however, said in his pre-match press conference ahead of their Europa League fixture against Porto on Thursday that both are “improving”.
“We hope that Luke Shaw can return after the international break quickly,” the United manager said. “I don’t know if it’s the first game we’re hoping for so I can’t in this moment say this with 100 per cent security.
“From now on we have two and a half weeks to work to the point. But then Shaw definitely after he will be there.
“Tyrell Malacia makes very good progress on the pitch and he now has to make the step to full team training.”
United, meanwhile, will be without midfielder Mason Mount for their second Europa League game because of a head injury and a knock sustained in the 3-0 defeat against Tottenham Hotspur on Sunday.
Mount replaced Kobbie Mainoo, who had to receive treatment, just before half time but was forced off in the 85th minute following an aerial challenge with Radu Dragusin which left him bleeding from his head.
“That head injury, he picked up a knock, two reasons why he isn’t available,” said Ten Hag.
Porto host United at the Dragao Stadium in the second round of the Europa League ‘league phase’ and both teams are looking for their first win in the competition after United drew 1-1 with FC Twente at Old Trafford last week while Porto lost to 10-man Bodo/Glimt 3-2.
(Top photo: Matt McNulty/Getty Images)
