Ten Hag's Ugarte update

The Uruguayan midfielder was absent from Thursday’s main training session, instead undertaking a recovery session having just returned from international duty.

Ugarte represented La Celeste in a World Cup qualifier against Ecuador, which kicked off in the early hours of Wednesday morning. He flew back to England to join up with his United team-mates but required some recovery time.

Ten Hag told journalists in a Friday lunchtime press conference that, despite his late return, Ugarte is fit and available for selection.

"He is ready for selection," stated the manager, when asked about the situation by journalists.

Ugarte’s availability is particularly positive, given Ten Hag’s confirmation of an injury to Kobbie Mainoo. The Academy graduate is expected to be out for a couple of weeks, with countryman Mason Mount also still recovering from a knock.

However, the manager still has several options in midfield for Saturday's fixture.

Christian Eriksen sustained his strong form during the international break by netting his fourth goal of the season, for club and country, in Denmark's draw against Switzerland, while Casemiro wasn’t included in Brazil’s squad during the break so should be raring to go.

Club captain Bruno Fernandes was back in good time at Carrington after contributing an assist for Portugal last weekend.

Ugarte will be looking to build some rhythm at this early stage in his United career, having started three games since his late August transfer from Paris Saint-Germain.

With a busy run of fixtures approaching for the Reds, it could be a good opportunity for the no.25 to earn himself a regular starting spot.

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