Erik ten Hag provides injury update on key Man Utd duo ahead of Brighton clash

Erik ten Hag has provided an injury update on Raphael Varane and Alejandro Garnacho ahead of Manchester United's trip to Brighton on Thursday.

The Red Devils travel to the Amex in a tasty looking battle for Champions League qualification, with Brighton eyeing a late surge to finish inside the top four.

While Ten Hag will be aiming to leapfrog Newcastle and cement third place in the Premier League table.

The Red Devils have managed brilliantly in the absence of centre-back duo Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane, winning their FA Cup semi-final against Brighton.

Martinez has been ruled out for the rest of the campaign, however Ten Hag has provided an encouraging update on Varane's return.

What did he say?

Discussing Varane's fitness in his pre-match press conference, the United boss revealed the Frenchman was closer to a return than fellow injured absentee Scott McTominay, and could be fit in two games time.

"The prognosis, I think Rapha [Varane] is closer than Scott McTominay in this moment," Ten Hag said.

"But still they are, for the coming two games [Brighton and West Ham], they are not available."

"The prognosis, I think Rapha is closer than Scott McTominay in this moment. But still they are, for the coming two games [Brighton and West Ham], they are not available."

United have also been without 18-year-old winger Garnacho after he sustained an ankle injury against Southampton in March.

The Argentine has since resumed training but Thursday's contest has come too soon.

Discussing Garnacho's return, Ten Hag stated: "I think we have one training [session], but I think it's too soon to be available.

"I think he is short [of full fitness]. I think he needs some training and then, in short notice, he will be available."