Even with five injuries to contend with, the Manchester United squad against Fulham was strong enough that two international wingers were omitted.
Victor Lindelof has played two halves of football since he reported for pre-season six weeks ago and done minimal training. He was nursing a "niggle" and then came off against Liverpool as a "precaution". Now he is on crutches. That's a nasty niggle.READ MORE:Zirkzee has already given United something they did not have last season
Provided Luke Shaw does not suffer an umpteenth setback, he is due back after the September internationals, so United will hope to get by with Mazraoui and Diogo Dalot at full back against Brighton and Liverpool. Tyrell Malacia's early October return date should be lightly pencilled in and United have Harry Amass as an alternative.
Scott McTominay, the only truly sellable asset in midfield, has to make room for an incoming, preferably Manuel Ugarte. United are confident of getting Ugarte but it is understood to be contingent on McTominay going. Ten Hag has stressed the need for quantity and quality. Toby Collyer has emerged as an additional option in midfield, an area where at least five out-and-out options are required. Discounting Mount, United already have a quintet with an average age lowered by Mainoo and pre-season tour breakout Collyer. Ten Hag can also call upon Fernandes, arguably a better footballer in the middle third than the final third.