Ten Hag is now without three first-team centre-backs as Varane is withdrawn with injury for second successive game

Raphael Varane has been substituted with an injury complaint for the second consecutive Manchester United game.

The Frenchman was withdrawn at half time during this evening’s clash with Chelsea and replaced by experienced veteran Jonny Evans. Against Brentford last Saturday, he was also hooked at half-time for Harry Maguire.

It was confirmed by the club at the beginning of the week that both Victor Lindelof and Lisandro Martinez would be out of action for at least a month through injuries, with the latter having only just returned from his third layoff in 12 months. He, in particular, has been dealt torrid luck on the fitness front this season.

Erik ten Hag’s centre-back partnership will now likely be decided for him when the Reds welcome Liverpool to Old Trafford on Sunday – Evans and Maguire are the only available senior options, although 19-year-old Willy Kambwala has deputised on numerous occasions this season and has six first-team appearances under his belt.