Solskjaer explains four changes plus David de Gea and Anthony Martial absences

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Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has opened up on the decision to leave David de Gea and Anthony Martial out of his Manchester United squad to face Crystal Palace.

United are taking on the Eagles at Selhurst Park on Wednesday night, with a win required to strengthen their grip on a place in the top four.

A win would move them three points clear of third-placed Leicester following their 1-1 draw at Burnley.

But there will be no De Gea or Martial for the Red Devils in south London, as both were ruled out of making the trip for respective reasons.

“(De Gea) That's personal reasons,” Solskjaer revealed in his pre-match interview with MUTV.

"Anthony got a knock in training on Monday in his knee, not ready for this, hopefully for the weekend but we’re not sure yet."

In place of De Gea, Dean Henderson is making only his third Premier League start for United at Palace on Wednesday night.

The young goalkeeper has made 12 starts so far this season, but most of them have come in cup competitions.

With his long-term future at Old Trafford uncertain ahead of the summer transfer window amid interest from Tottenham and West Ham, Henderson has a point to prove at Selhurst Park.

“Let’s hope he performs as well as he’s done all season, he gets his chance now, he’s been waiting patiently and working really hard and he’s ready to grab his opportunity,” said Solskjaer.

The United boss has made a total of four changes to his starting lineup at Selhurst Park, also bringing Eric Bailly, Nemanja Matic and Edinson Cavani into the side.

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    • Cavani has missed their last four outings due to injury, but after watching his side draw blank in two of those games Solskjaer believes his return could be timely.

    The Norwegian added: “He’s always a goal threat. We hope to have a lot of the ball and be in and around their box, if we play in their half I’m sure Edinson will get chances.”

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    • David de Gea
    • Ole Gunnar Solskjaer
    • Manchester United FC

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