'Everton will be a close finish' - Erik ten Hag issues concerning update on availability of Man Utd striker Rasmus Hojlund

Hojlund picked up a knee injury against Luton Town last time out that ruled him out of Denmark's Euro 2024 qualifiers against Slovenia and Northern Ireland. United had been hoping he would be fit to return in time for Sunday's trip to Everton, but Ten Hag admits the club are facing an anxious wait to see if he will be ready in time.

"Rasmus Hojlund, not too bad. Everton will be a close finish but we're working on that," Ten Hag told reporters.

"We're not sure if he can make that but, hopefully, in the next week, he will return to the squad."

Ten Hag will be eager to have Hojlund available for the game at Goodison Park as he is short of options when it comes to replacing the Denmark international. United have been plagued by injuries this season but they have been handed some good news ahead of their next match. Luke Shaw has returned to training after three months out, while goalkeeper Andre Onana is also expected to be fit after picking up a groin problem on international duty with Cameroon.

Ten Hag may also have one eye on Wednesday's Champions League fixture against Galatasaray when it comes to selecting his team against Everton. The Red Devils must win in Turkey to keep their slim hopes of progression alive. Hojlund is yet to score in the Premier League but is the joint-top scorer in Europe's premier club competition with five goals from four games.