Sports Mole

Manchester United interim head coach Michael Carrick has provided the latest update on the fitness of his squad before Saturday lunchtime’s Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford.

The Red Devils are in high spirits at present after winning each of their last three Premier League games under Carrick against Arsenal, Manchester City and Fulham, beating the latter 3-2 at home last weekend.

Matthijs de Ligt was not involved in any of those victories as he has been sidelined since the end of November with a back injury, while Mason Mount missed the win over Fulham after sustaining a knock in training.

Speaking at a press conference at Carrington on Thursday afternoon, Carrick confirmed that both Mount and De Ligt will not be ready to return against Spurs, but the former will soon be available for selection.

Mount closing in on return as Carrick provides fresh De Ligt update

"Probably, Mason [will be available] sooner," Carrick told reporters. "He's not too far away really. We're hopeful it won't be too long.

"Matta [De Ligt], he's working his way back, taking good steps and improving. It's a little bit too soon at the moment but, hopefully, it won't be too long [before De Ligt is back]."

Man United’s only other injury concern is with Patrick Dorgu who picked up a hamstring injury in a 3-2 win at Arsenal at the end of last month and he is facing around nine weeks on the sidelines.

The Red Devils currently sit fourth in the Premier League table, just one point above Chelsea in fifth, and Carrick’s instant impact at Old Trafford has been rewarded with a Premier League Manager of the Month nomination for January.

“Big challenge ahead" for Man United against Tottenham

Carrick is now gearing up his Man United side for a clash with his former club Spurs, where he spent two years as a player between 2004 and 2006, and the 44-year-old is expecting a tricky test, even though Thomas Frank’s side are without a win in six league games (D3 L3).

“[Tottenham] certainly bring a challenge,” said Carrick. “The way they finished the game the other day (2-2 draw with Man City), they’ve had, over a period, players injured, a lot of changes to the team which makes things more difficult.

“They’re getting players back, they have really good attackers that look to stretch the backline and play forward and attack the box an awful lot.

“(Saturday will be) a slightly different game to what we’ve played in recent weeks, but we’re looking forward to, we are in a good place, the boys have worked well again this week. Feet on the ground, let’s not get carried away. It’s about what’s next. Big challenge ahead.”

Man United have failed to win any of their last six Premier League encounters with Spurs (D3 L3), but success on Saturday would see them register four consecutive top-flight victories for the first time since February 2024 under former boss Erik ten Hag.

Manchester United could be without three players for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford.

While Patrick Dorgu and Matthijs de Ligt remain sidelined with respective thigh and back injuries, Mason Mount recently picked up a knock in training and will be assessed ahead of kickoff.

After steering the Red Devils to three successive wins over Arsenal, Man City and Fulham, most recently beating the latter 3-2 last weekend, interim head coach Michael Carrick is expected to stick with his winning formula and not make wholesale changes to his starting lineup.

A back four of Diogo Dalot, Harry Maguire, Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw is set to remain intact, protecting goalkeeper Senne Lammens, while Casemiro and Kobbie Mainoo link arms in centre-midfield.

Captain Bruno Fernandes has registered more assists than any other Premier League player so this season, with his 12 also his joint-best tally in a single campaign (level with 2020-21). The playmaker is expected to continue in an advanced central role behind Bryan Mbeumo up front.

Benjamin Sesko will be pushing for a recall after netting a 94th-minute winner against Fulham, but Carrick will likely continue with Mbeumo down the middle, with Amad Diallo and Matheus Cunha providing support in attack from out wide - the latter has been involved in four goals in his last five top-flight appearances (three goals, one assist).

Manchester United possible starting lineup: Lammens; Dalot, Maguire, Martinez, Shaw; Casemiro, Mainoo; Diallo, Fernandes, Cunha; Mbeumo

Tottenham Hotspur could be without as many as 13 players for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Manchester United at Old Trafford.

Spurs’ packed treatment room includes James Maddison, Dejan Kulusevski (both knee), Mohammed Kudus (thigh), Pedro Porro, Richarlison, Rodrigo Bentancur (all hamstring), Ben Davies, Lucas Bergvall (both ankle) and Kevin Danso (toe) who are all ruled out.

Dominic Solanke (fitness) and Cristian Romero could not complete the full 90 minutes in last weekend’s 2-2 Premier League draw with Man City - a game in which Solanke scored two second-half goals - and both players will be assessed ahead of facing Man United.

Meanwhile, Micky van de Ven (unspecified) and Djed Spence (calf) were both left out of the matchday squad against City and a late call is set to be made on their availability on Saturday.

If fit, Romero and Van de Ven would be expected to start at centre-back, but head coach Thomas Frank may be required to call upon Radu Dragusin and Joao Palhinha to fill in at the back, while Spence - if fit - Destiny Udogie, Archie Gray and new signing Souza all battle for a starting spot at full-back or wing-back, depending on the formation.

Pape Sarr will be looking to force his way back in the first XI and could either replace or link up with Conor Gallagher and Yves Bissouma in centre-midfield.

Wilson Odobert and Mathys Tel are both in contention to earn recalls in the final third, though Randal Kolo Muani, Xavi Simons and Solanke - if fit - are all likely to retain their starting spots. The latter has scored five goals in his last five appearances against Man United in all competitions.

Tottenham Hotspur possible starting lineup: Vicario; Spence, Romero, Van de Ven, Udogie; Bissouma, Gallagher; Odobert, Simons, Kolo Muani; Solanke

Ivan Rakitic has urged Bayern Munich to sign Tottenham Hotspur defender Luka Vuskovic next summer.

Spurs reached an agreement to sign Vuskovic from Hajduk Split for £12m in September 2023, but he joined in the summer of 2025 in a deal that runs until 2030.

The 18-year-old centre-back moved to Hamburg on loan, joined his brother Mario, and has been making great progress this season.

Vuskovic scored in the 2-2 draw for Hamburg against Bayern last weekend, and produced an assured performance at the back against the quality opposition attackers.

The young centre-back has scored four goals in 17 starts in the Bundesliga, and top clubs are taking note of his rapid progress this season.

Bayern Munich eye move for Luka Vuskovic?

It has recently been reported that the German champions have been keeping an eye on Vuskovic, as they clearly appreciate his talents.

Dayot Upamecano is reportedly set to sign a new contract at Bayern, but the German club could still look to add a new defender next summer if they manage to offload Kim Min-jae.

Adding a young talent with the potential to improve should be their top priority, and Vuskovic fits the bill nicely.

Speaking to Sky Germany after the game, Rakitic suggested that Vuskovic is ready to step up his game and move to a bigger club, and Max Eberl must sign him in the summer.

"All of European football is talking about him right now," said Rakitic.

"Bayern Munich needs to step up their game. I believe this lad has to go to Bayern Munich. It’s incredibly exciting to see such a young guy making such a splash in the football world."

Big decision for Tottenham Hotspur in the summer

Spurs could be looking to bring in quality centre-backs in the next transfer window, and they should be excited to see how Vuskovic has progressed this season.

The youngster can be a natural replacement for Radu Dragusin, who is continuously being linked with a move away from the club, and give him the right platform to shine.

Vuskovic is showing frightening potential in the top flight of German football, and Spurs are reportedly already looking to discuss a new contract with him.

The Croatian could be a good signing for Bayern, but it will be a real shame if Tottenham sell him without giving him a proper opportunity to shine.

Manchester United will be aiming to make it four straight wins in the Premier League when they host Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday afternoon.

The Red Devils are fourth in the Premier League table, one point ahead of fifth-placed Chelsea, while Spurs are 14th, nine points above the relegation zone.

Here, Sports Mole provides details of how to tune into the contest.

What time does Man United vs. Tottenham kick off?

The Premier League match will kick off at 12.30pm UK time on Saturday.

Where is Man United vs. Tottenham being played?

The game will take place at Man United's home ground, Old Trafford.

Man United have won seven, drawn three and lost two of their 12 home Premier League matches during the 2025-26 campaign.

The corresponding match last season ended in a 3-0 win for Spurs, who are unbeaten in their last eight games in all competitions with the 20-time English champions.

How to watch Man United vs. Tottenham in the UK

TV channels

The clash at Old Trafford will be broadcast live in the UK on the TNT Sports 1 and TNT Sports Ultimate TV channels.

Streaming

Fans can stream this clash live via Discovery+ if they have purchased the TNT Sports package on the platform.

Discovery+ with TNT Sports is also available through the Amazon Prime Video app.

Highlights

Any goals/major incidents will be posted on the FootballOnTNT X account, while highlights will be uploaded to the TNT Sports Football YouTube channel later in the day.

Viewers can also watch Match of the Day for analysis and highlights from all of Saturday's Premier League fixtures, starting at 10.25pm on BBC One.

Man United vs. Tottenham: What's the story?

Man United are flying under Michael Carrick, with the Red Devils recording three straight wins over Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham.

The 20-time English champions are in charge of fourth spot in the table, and they sit 11 points clear of 14th-placed Tottenham in England's top flight.

It has been another tough domestic season for Spurs, with the future of head coach Thomas Frank being called into question, but the North London club did brilliantly to fight back to draw 2-2 with Manchester City last weekend.

Incredibly, Tottenham are unbeaten in their last eight matches with Man United, including last year's Europa League final.

Man United have not overcome Spurs at Old Trafford since October 2022, but Carrick's team will be the favourites to triumph on Saturday afternoon.

Tottenham Hotspur will be bidding to return to winning ways in the Premier League when they head to Manchester United on Saturday afternoon.

Thomas Frank's side are 14th in the Premier League table, 11 points behind fourth-placed Man United, who are flying under Michael Carrick.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up Tottenham's latest injury and suspension news ahead of their clash with the Red Devils at Old Trafford.

Ben Davies

Status: Out

Type of injury: Ankle

Possible return date: Unknown

Davies suffered a serious injury in his side's recent defeat against West Ham United, and an ankle operation will keep the defender out for a significant period.

Lucas Bergvall

Status: Out

Type of injury: Ankle

Possible return date: Unknown

Tottenham midfielder Bergvall is currently on the sidelines with an ankle injury, and there are fears that the 20-year-old may not be back until April.

Micky van de Ven

Status: Minor doubt

Type of injury: Knock

Possible return date: February 7 (vs. Man United)

Van de Ven was absent against Manchester City last time out due to a minor issue, but Tottenham are confident that the Dutchman will be back on Saturday.

Rodrigo Bentancur

Status: Out

Type of injury: Hamstring

Possible return date: Unknown

Bentancur sustained a hamstring injury in Tottenham's defeat to Bournemouth last month, and the midfielder will be missing for a significant period.

Mohammed Kudus

Status: Out

Type of injury: Thigh

Possible return date: Unknown

Kudus picked up a thigh injury against Sunderland on January 4, and the Ghana international is set to be sidelined for at least another six weeks.

Richarlison

Status: Out

Type of injury: Hamstring

Possible return date: Unknown

Richarlison was forced off in the first half against Aston Villa on January 10 with a hamstring problem, and the Brazilian will be out for another three weeks or so.

James Maddison

Status: Out

Type of injury: ACL

Possible return date: Unknown

Maddison is currently working on his rehabilitation from the ACL injury that he sustained in August - the 29-year-old could be back for pre-season ahead of the 2026-27 campaign.

Dejan Kulusevski

Status: Out

Type of injury: Knee

Possible return date: Unknown

Kulusevski has not played since April 2025 due to a long-term knee injury, and it is still unclear when the Sweden international will be back on the field.

Cristian Romero

Status: Minor doubt

Type of injury: Illness

Possible return date: February 7 (vs. Man United)

Romero needs to be assessed ahead of the trip to Old Trafford, with the Argentina international recently absent due to illness.

Djed Spence

Status: Minor doubt

Type of injury: Calf

Possible return date: February 7 (vs. Man United)

Spence has a calf issue, which has been described as 'minor', but the defender is currently a doubt for the Premier League game with Man United.

Kevin Danso

Status: Out

Type of injury: Toe

Possible return date: Unknown

Danso has suffered a ligament injury in his toe, and the complicated nature of the issue means that a clear return date at this stage of proceedings is unclear.

Pedro Porro

Status: Out

Type of injury: Thigh

Possible return date: February 22 (vs. Arsenal)

Tottenham will be without Porro on Saturday due to a thigh injury, but the defender is expected to be back on the field before the end of the month.

TOTTENHAM HOTSPUR’S SUSPENSION LIST

Tottenham have no players suspended for the Premier League clash with Man United.

Manchester United will be aiming to make it four wins in a row in the Premier League when they host Tottenham Hotspur on Saturday afternoon.

The Red Devils have beaten Manchester City, Arsenal and Fulham in their last three matches to move into fourth spot in the Premier League table.

Here, Sports Mole rounds up all of Man United's injury and suspension issues ahead of the game with Spurs, who are down in 14th spot in England's top flight.

Matthijs de Ligt

Status: Out

Type of injury: Back

Possible return date: Unknown

De Ligt has missed Man United's last 12 matches due to a back problem, and the Netherlands international will again miss out here, but a return for the centre-back could come at some stage in February.

Patrick Dorgu

Status: Out

Reason: Hamstring

Possible return date: Unknown

Dorgu had been in excellent form for Man United before picking up a hamstring injury against Arsenal, and the Denmark international is facing another nine weeks or so on the sidelines.

Mason Mount

Status: Major doubt

Type of injury: Knock

Possible return date: February 7 (vs. Tottenham)

Mount missed out against Fulham last time out due to a knock that he suffered in training, and the Englishman is a major doubt for the clash with Spurs.

MAN UNITED'S SUSPENSION LIST

Man United have no players suspended for this match.

Barcelona, Real Madrid, Atletico Madrid fits assessed

Barcelona deploy a high line under boss Hansi Flick, and Romero could be suited to such a system given he is at his best when on the front foot.

His injury issues could be problematic considering Barca's style of play is intense, but his experience as a World Cup winner could prove vital in the latter stages of the Champions League.

Atletico Madrid have lacked elite centre-backs for a number of years, which perhaps explains why they have failed to seriously challenge for the title in the last four seasons.

Real Madrid will need leadership in their backline to aid the development of 20 year old Dean Huijsen, but with uncertainty regarding the club's managerial situation following Xabi Alonso's dismissal, Romero may be reluctant to agree to move to the Bernabeu.

Troubling future for Tottenham Hotspur?

Micky van de Ven has been consistently linked with a move away, and losing both starting centre-backs would put the club in a difficult position in the summer.

Even if Van de Ven was to remain at Spurs, he has frequently suffered injuries, and he has not proven reliable from a fitness perspective.

If Tottenham can convince Romero to stay for at least another season, perhaps they would be better able to plan for a future with new starters in central defence without risking a crisis in the backline.

Tottenham Hotspur centre-back criticised the lack of depth at the club in a social media post thanking fans.

The Londoners earned a point when they drew 2-2 with Manchester City on Sunday, though the Premier League result was made harder by the absences plaguing the squad.

Thomas Frank's side were without nine senior players against City, and the head coach was forced to bring centre-back Romero off at half time due to illness.

The defender has himself been frequently injured during his time at Spurs, and speaking on Instagram, he hit out at the lack of depth at the club, saying: "Great effort from all my teammates yesterday, they were incredible.

"I wanted to be available to help them even though I wasn't feeling well, especially since we only had 11 players available - unbelievable but true and disgraceful.

"We'll keep showing up and taking responsibility to turn this around, working hard and staying together."

Frank only named four senior outfield players on the bench against City, with three of those players coming on, and one of those substitutes was January signing Souza.

Have Tottenham failed in the January transfer window?

Injuries are nothing new to Tottenham given they were regularly depleted under previous boss Ange Postecoglou, who argued that his team were unable to distance themselves from the bottom half because of frequent injuries.

The only winter signing made by the club other than Souza was midfielder Conor Gallagher, who was bought from Atletico Madrid for a fee of £35m.

There is an argument that Spurs neglected the areas of need in the team given key attackers Dejan Kulusevski and James Maddison are injured, while defenders Romero and Micky van de Ven have often been on the sidelines.

Spurs also facilitated the exits of winger Brennan Johnson to Crystal Palace and defender Kota Takai to Borussia Monchengladbach this month, so it is understandable that Romero would be frustrated by Tottenham's squad building.

Has Thomas Frank been judged too harshly?

There have been calls from fans and pundits for Frank to be replaced due to the fact the club are currently 14th in the Premier League with just 29 points from 24 games.

The Dane cannot escape criticism about his pragmatic approach, and it is alarming that their xG tally of 25 is only better than three other teams in the top flight this term.

Frank deserves a degree of leniency due to the injuries in his squad, but there have been few signs of progress compared to last season.

Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly managed to hijack Arsenal's proposed move for Hearts striker James Wilson on transfer deadline day.

The 18-year-old was originally said to have been in talks with the Gunners, who were negotiating an initial loan deal for the one-cap Scotland international.

Wilson would have been signed for the Arsenal academy system rather than the first team, though, as Mikel Arteta currently has Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz competing for starts up front.

The 18-year-old is rated incredibly highly by the Gunners hierarchy, though, and there was hope that he would have been ready for first-team action within a couple of years.

However, Wilson will supposedly head to the other side of North London, as Fabrizio Romano reports that a deal is in place for the teenager to join Thomas Frank's Tottenham.

Why did James Wilson choose Spurs over Arsenal?

While Arsenal were thought to have been discussing a loan potentially becoming a permanent switch, Romano states that the Premier League leaders were in fact only offering him a trial.

On the other hand, Tottenham suggested a loan move with an option to buy at the end of the season, and the Lilywhites have now struck an agreement with both the player and club.

Wilson is now undergoing his medical with the Europa League champions, and the 'formal steps' of his move will follow, but there is confidence that the deal will be completed before the 7pm deadline.

The 18-year-old has already played 45 times for the senior Hearts side in all competitions, coming up with eight goals and three assists in the process, including five strikes in the 2024-25 Scottish Premiership.

The Jambos are currently six points clear of Celtic and Rangers at the top of the Scottish Premiership table, but Wilson has played just 77 minutes of first-division football this season.

Will Tottenham make any other deadline-day signings?

Assuming all goes to plan, Wilson will become Tottenham's third signing of the winter transfer window, following Conor Gallagher's switch from Atletico Madrid and Souza's signing from Santos.

It remains to be seen whether the Scotland international is promoted straight to the first team or joins the academy ranks, but the latter may be more likely given that Randal Kolo Muani is staying.

Tottenham have been linked with a couple of more senior players on transfer deadline day too, but there is no chance of the club pulling off deals for Liverpool's Andrew Robertson or Curtis Jones before the 7pm cut-off point.

The Lilywhites were also rumoured to have taken an interest in Monaco playmaker Maghnes Akliouche, but the 23-year-old is also expected to stay put in France.

As a result, once Wilson is through the doors at Hotspur Way, Tottenham's business will surely be complete until the summer.