Man Utd news: Ruben Amorim handed serious warning as Red Devils receive double injury boost

Saturday's Premier League match offers a chance for Ruben Amorim to relieve some pressure after last weekend's derby defeat. It will be a chance to learn whether his side can benefit from a lack of European commitments, with the opponents coming in off a midweek trip to Munich.

Amorim maintained after that defeat that he had no intention of abandoning his principles. He has averaged just one point per game across this season and last, though, and questions are being asked of the Portuguese.

This weekend will also provide an opportunity for one of United's former stars to haunt his old employers. Alejandro Garnacho has shown promise in a couple of substitute appearances for Chelsea following a summer move, and manager Enzo Maresca confirmed the winger is in contention to start.

Saturday's game is one of three between now and the October international break which could help shape United's season. They travel to Brentford on September 27, and will welcome Sunderland to Old Trafford seven days after that.

Amorim has received a boost ahead of the Chelsea clash, with a couple of first-teamers in contention to play after injury. That's just one of the latest lines as we bring you updates on United's preparations on and off the pitch.

READ MORE: Ruben Amorim's transfer reality after Marcus Rashford masterclass – 'What have I done?'

READ MORE: Ruben Amorim lifts lid on Sir Jim Ratcliffe crunch talks after nightmare Man Utd start

Cunha and Mount to return

Matheus Cunha and Mason Mount are both in contention to take to the field against Chelsea on Saturday after missing the Manchester derby. Both picked up injuries in the victory over Burnley, but the setbacks aren't as serious as some feared - though others are still missing.

"[Diogo] Dalot is out, Mount and Cunha are in the squad," Amorim told reporters at his pre-match press conference on Friday. "[Lisandro] Martinez is still out. I think that is it.

The only other absentee is Tyrell Malacia, who remains on United's books after failing to secure a summer move away. "Tyrell Malacia is returning to contact with team-mates and the ball in the U21s then we'll see," the manager added.

Shearer sends Amorim warning

You have to go back to the 1992-93 Premier League season to find the last time Manchester United had as few points as they do now. The slow start has left pundits speculating about Ruben Amorim's future, and former England striker Alan Shearer has suggested defeat this weekend could be the final straw.

"I don't think they can afford to be beaten [like they were against Manchester City] again this weekend," Shearer told Betfair. "If they were then you'd have to fear for what's going to happen going forward for the manager. Something must improve rapidly. Man United can't be lingering in 14th/15th/16th in the Premier League.

"There hasn't been an improvement at all up to now and that can't continue with what they spent. There has to be something that gets them going and if that doesn't happen quickly then everyone knows the rules when it comes to football management."

Rashford 'learning' after Champions League heroics

Marcus Rashford reminded Manchester United fans of his quality with a Champions League brace against Newcastle on Thursday night. The England star opened his account for loan club Barcelona, scoring a fine header before beating Nick Pope with an unstoppable effort, as Barca held on for a 2-1 win.

"It is going good. I am obviously learning a lot," Rashford told TNT Sports after a match-winning display in front of watching England manager Thomas Tuchel. "It is a new way of football. Iam enjoying it all and I think it is making me a better player.

"That is what I am here to do - to help the team win, but also to try to improve and be the best that I can. It is an amazing experience. I have always been a huge admirer of Barcelona as most people my age have watched them play from when we were younger.

Join our new MAN UTD WhatsApp communityand receive your daily dose of Manchester United content from Mirror Football. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don't like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you're curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.