Mourinho's injury update ahead of Watford v United

Marcos Rojo will return to match action in the Under-23s’ home game against Reading tonight (Friday), alongside summer signing Diogo Dalot, as both players step up their recovery from injury. 

Luke Shaw is available for the game against the Hornets after suffering concussion during England’s clash with Spain during the international break, but the manager will leave it late before deciding on the left-back’s involvement.

But Ander Herrera is doubtful with an ankle injury and there’s also a question mark over Marouane Fellaini, who picked up a minor back problem that ruled him out of Belgium’s two recent games. Marcus Rashford is suspended after being sent off in United’s win at Burnley last time out.

On Shaw, the boss told reporters at his press conference: "I don't know. We still have a training session. Contrary to some news and opinions, from the protocol point of view and according to our doctor, he will be free to play. 

“The only situation I have to analyse is if we are going to play him when, during the week, he wasn't training with the team. Or even if he had been training, if we decide to play him.

"Fellaini is a doubt. Ander Herrera is a doubt – he had one little problem in one ankle in training during the week, so he's a doubt. 

“Diogo Dalot and Marcos Rojo will play tonight with the Under-23s and, if they play the 90 minutes like we expect, then it will be the end of their recovering process and we will consider them ready to be back next week for full competition."

Rashford, who scored twice for England during the international break, will miss United's next three domestic games after being dismissed at Turf Moor.

Mourinho added: "Speaking about Marcus, I think I can expect that on Sunday I'm going to be criticised for not playing Marcus, but it's not my fault.

"He is suspended, so probably we should remind people that he's suspended and cannot play. Performances with England, of course I am happy. He played well, he competed well and he scored, especially in a period where he comes with some sadness after his suspension, and it was very good that he did that."  

WATCH ROJO AND DALOT IN ACTION

MUTV will show exclusive live coverage of United Under-23s' match against Reading at Old Trafford tonight. The build-up begins at 18:30 BST with kick-off at 19:00 BST.