Manchester United have seen the positive start to 2024 derailed by injuries to three key players over the last month.

First Lisandro Martinez was put back on the injured list against West Ham, with a return in early April hoped for.

Next up was Luke Shaw who was withdrawn at half-time two weeks running with the second leading to his season potentially ending.

Lastly, Rasmus Hojlund picked up a training injury with a return timescale of two to three weeks suggested, it has been two weeks and now the 21-year-old has given United fans an update.

Outside Carrington, as Hojlund departed in his car he stopped to take photos and sign shirts with fans.

As he did this, he was asked by one fan whether he would be back in contention to face Everton this Saturday lunchtime at Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag must be desperate for Hojlund to return

If Hojlund isn’t available this weekend, the task of beating Everton will be a lot tougher than it would be with the focal point of United’s attack.

Hojlund has scored eight goals and provided two assists in his past eight games in all competitions as he found his feet at Old Trafford.

The impact he has up-front for United is huge and it’s clear to see the difference with Marcus Rashford in his place.

If Hojlund misses out this weekend, Ten Hag needs to avoid playing Rashford upfront anyway and put Scott McTominay as a striker as his physicality is needed to battle Everton’s tough duo.