Lisandro Martinez poised to make comeback from injury for Man United in clash against Newcastle, reveals Erik ten Hag… but three other players in race against time to be fit.

Lisandro Martinez is set to make his latest comeback for Manchester United in the final home game of the season against Newcastle at Old Trafford on Wednesday night.

The Argentina defender has missed large parts of the season due to foot surgery, knee ligament damage and, most recently, a calf strain.

But Martinez has been desperate to get fit and play a part at the end of the season, particularly the FA Cup final against Manchester City at Wembley on May 25.

Manager Erik ten Hag confirmed Martinez’s return, and revealed that Bruno Fernandes, Marcus Rashford and Willy Kambwala are battling to be fit in time to face Eddie Howe’s side.

‘Licha Martinez, I think he will return in the squad,’ said Ten Hag. ‘He’s had some sessions with us and we plan for him to be available if this afternoon everything goes right in training. He will return to the squad. Some other players we have to see: Bruno, Rashford, Willy, if they are fit enough.’

Ten Hag also hopes that Raphael Varane can play for United again after confirming that he will leave the club a free agent at the end of the season. ‘We are planning, definitely, for the last games,’ said Ten Hag. ‘Not tomorrow but we hope for Sunday (at Brighton) and then, of course, for the last game (Cup Final).’

Responding to speculation over Fernandes’ future amid interest from Saudi Arabia, Ten Hag said: ‘It’s the same question as last week. The same answer. In all the years, he was a tremendously important player for Manchester United and creating the most chances across the Premier League. So many assists, so many goals. It’s clear he’s a very important player for us.’