Manchester United set for huge injury boost as AFCON talks held over trio

Manchester United are set to lose Andre Onana to the Africa Cup of Nations next month.

The goalkeeper was named in Cameroon’s squad ahead of their tournament opener on January 15. Onana reversed his international retirement this summer and so will miss up to five United games if his country makes the final. Two other United players are eligible to play in the competition too.

Manager Erik ten Hag said last week that he believes United will be stronger in the new year anyway when a number of injured stars return. Five players have been given return dates, including Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro, in what is a real boost for United.

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Erik ten Hag would not confirm when Onana is due to join up with the Cameroon national squad for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Onana has started in all 27 of United's matches so far this season and fellow summer goalkeeping signing Altay Bayindir is still yet to make his debut.

Bayindir could come into the team for the FA Cup third round tie against Wigan on January 8 but it is unclear if United will delay Onana's departure as Cameroon's first game is on January 15.

Sofyan Amrabat and Hannibal Mejbri also represent sides taking part in the competition, with the Reds still finalising plans for all three players.

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United are set to travel to Nottingham Forest with the same squad that secured a coruscating comeback win over Aston Villa on Boxing Day.

However, United manager Erik ten Hag expects to have up to five players back from long-term injury in mid-January when United could only have a maximum of three games.

Tyrell Malacia, Lisandro Martinez,