Rashford and Shaw ruled out as injury-hit United host Roma with Carrick under pressure

Manchester United host AS Roma in the Champions League with Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw both unavailable, as manager Michael Carrick faces mounting pressure at Old Trafford after a run of poor results.

Carrick’s side have not won since beating Sabah FK in September, and Saturday’s loss to Chelsea has intensified the spotlight on the United boss. A victory over the Serie A side would go some way to relieving that pressure.

Luke Shaw

Shaw’s injury remains unspecified, and Carrick confirmed the left-back will not be involved this week. “Luke definitely won’t be around this week, and fit at that point,” the manager said. Shaw did not feature in Monday’s training session, with his potential return pencilled in for the November 22 fixture against Liverpool.

Marcus Rashford

Rashford has been managing a hip problem since missing the trip to Como last month. He also sat out Monday’s training session and is unlikely to feature against Roma. Carrick offered a cautious update: “Marcus, we will just have to see day-by-day how he keeps improving.” The forward could return as early as November 8 against Aston Villa.

Patrick Dorgu

Dorgu has been absent since suffering a thigh injury during the first international break of the season, but he was included in the 24-man training group on Monday — a positive sign for United. Carrick confirmed the winger will not be involved against Roma, however. “It was his first day with the group so it is great to have him back. He’s worked ever so hard to be back with the group, but he won’t be involved tomorrow,” the manager said. Like Rashford, Dorgu is targeting a return against Aston Villa on November 8.

Benjamin Sesko

The most concerning update concerns striker Benjamin Sesko, who is facing an extended spell on the sidelines with a shin injury. Carrick admitted last week that the club is still assessing the full extent of the problem. “Unfortunately Ben looks like he’s going to be out for a period of time. We’re still not clear of exactly how long, but it’s going to be for a longer period of time,” he said, adding that the club is still working through the treatment process.

On a more positive note, Kobbie Mainoo returned from injury last week and came off the bench against Chelsea. He is fit to feature again against Roma. Lisandro Martinez, who was sent off against Chelsea, will serve his suspension in Sunday’s league match against Aston Villa rather than in the European tie.