Man United striker Hojlund could return for Liverpool clash

MANCHESTER, England (AP) — Manchester United striker

Rasmus Hojlund

could return from injury in time to face Liverpool in the FA Cup quarterfinals next week, manager Erik ten Hag said on Friday.

Hojlund was named Premier League player of the month for February after a run of five goals in four league games. But he hasn't played since Feb. 18 because of a muscle injury and United has

lost two of three games

in his absence.

United plays Liverpool on March 17. Harry Maguire and Aaron Wan-Bissaka could also be available for that match after injuries.

“Harry Maguire, Aaron Wan-Bissaka I expect to be back for our game against Liverpool. Hojlund (is) similar,” Ten Hag said at a news conference ahead of Saturday’s league game against Everton.

Mason Mount is another player nearing return after being out since November. Ten Hag said the England midfielder could be available after the upcoming international break.

Ten Hag believes the injuries have been a significant factor behind his team's struggles, with United looking unlikely to secure a top four finish and guaranteed qualification for the Champions League.

It has led to speculation about his future and reports that potential successors are being assessed.

United won the English League Cup and finished third in the Dutch coach's first season in charge, but is 11 points off fourth-placed Aston Villa.

Ten Hag, who has won 61 of his first 100 games in charge, believes that record would have been better if not for injuries.

“It tells that we are in the right direction,” he said. “So, imagine if we had many more players available, not so many setbacks in injuries, it could have been easily 70 or 75 wins and that tells the bright future of this team when players are available.

“I think we are playing to maximum levels if you take in the availability of the players.”

___

James Robson is at

https://twitter.com/jamesalanrobson

___

AP soccer:

https://apnews.com/hub/soccer