EXPLAINED: James Garner & Raphael Varane Absences From Manchester United Squad vs Crystal Palace

James Garner and Raphael Varane are missing from Erik ten Hag's Manchester United squad to face Crystal Palace.

The English youngster is yet to play a minute on tour with a slight injury causing him problems.

However, he did mention previously that he hopes to be back involved for United's next game against Aston Villa.

It will feel like a blow for the midfielder who was key for Nottingham Forest last season as they were finally promoted back to the Premier League.

Meanwhile, Varane played the opening game of tour but was not available for selection against Melbourne Victory.

He's had his injury issues, and they were apparent for United last season, but it seems as though there is nothing to worry about for either player.

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United confirmed that while neither player has made the matchday squad, this is only a precaution.

They added that the two players will continue to train with the group.

It already looks like Ten Hag is carefully managing his squad.

His first two fixtures saw the majority of the team change at half-time as he looked to build the fitness of the entire squad.

But, now, he's revealed that more players will play a longer period of time.

He adds the need to be ready for the Premier League opener against Brighton as a goal to prepare for.

"Today, a lot of players will make a step to (playing) 60 minutes." He told MUTV.

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"We construct carefully and the fitness has to build, this is a good opportunity to do that.

"I see progression from day to day, and that has to be," he added.

"Because we have to be ready for the start of the Premier League."

There will be three more warm-up games after Palace for United to improve further ahead of the season opener.

Fans will be hoping to see Garner flourish before the start of the season, however, players such as Zidane Iqbal and Charlie Savage have softened the blow.