Marouane Fellaini, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling have all picked up knocks during the current international break, making them doubts for Jose Mourinho ahead of Saturday’s match against West Brom.
Meanwhile in South America, Argentina are set to face Bolivia late tonight. That wouldn’t normally be too much of a worry, Bolivia are having a poor qualifying campaign, but the match is away in La Paz… which changes everything.
During previous Argentina visits to play in La Paz, players have taken oxygen on the pitch due to the very high altitude. It saps energy and fitness and is a real physical test. Added to the long flight back from South America it’s a genuine concern for any managers who have players taking part.
Jose Mourinho is one of those managers, with both Sergio Romero and Macros Rojo expected to play in the match. Manchester United concerns will be mainly about Rojo, given their other injury concerns in defence.
A private jet can be laid on to make the return to Manchester quicker and comfier, but there’s little which can be done about the altitude.
