Why Raphael Varane missed Man Utd's FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham

Erik ten Hag made four changes for Manchester United’s FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham and was without the injured Raphael Varane.

Manchester United news, exclusives and analysis

United have their sights set on a League and FA Cup double but Marco Silva’s Fulham will hope to end their run at Old Trafford.

Ten Hag made four changes to the side that beat Real Betis in the Europa League on Thursday night, with Scott McTominay and Marcel Sabitzer coming into central midfield.

Luke Shaw returns at left-back and Jadon Sancho also starts, with Tyrell Malacia and Facundo Pellistri dropping to the bench.

£82m summer signing Antony is back on the bench following a period of illness but Casemiro misses out as he serves the first of four matches out through suspension.

Centre-back Varane was also absent for Manchester United as he is struggling with a minor injury, with United hopeful he will be fit for the trip to Newcastle United after the international break.

Asked about Varane’s absence, Ten Hag said: ‘He’s injured. It’s difficult to say but I think it’s something small. I think he’ll recover and be back after the international break.’

Former United midfielder Andreas Pereira starts for Fulham alongside the likes of Aleksandar Mitrovic and ex-Chelsea winger Willian.

Manchester United are third in the Premier League while Fulham are ninth in their first season back in the English top-flight.

Fulham were expected to be involved in a relegation battle at the start of the campaign but Silva’s side have defied expectations and now have their eyes on a European place.

Speaking ahead of the match, Silva said: ‘It’s our aim to progress. We know it will be a tough game, Man United are one of the strongest teams in the country. But we will try to match them.’

For more stories like this, check our sport page.

Follow Metro Sport for the latest news onFacebook, Twitter and Instagram.

Source: Read Full Article