Michael Carrick confirms Man Utd injury blow for Man City clash

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick has confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt will be sidelined for the Premier League derby against Manchester City at Old Trafford tomorrow.

The Red Devils have shared the spoils in the last three league matches and will aim to return to winning ways in the Manchester derby.

Ahead of the game, interim boss Carrick has revealed that De Ligt is still nursing a back problem and won't be available to make the squad.

The Dutch centre-back has not kicked a ball for the Red Devils since November and based on the update, he may not return anytime soon.

De Ligt has not reported for individual training as things stand, and he may require another few weeks before returning to working with the group.

In his absence, Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven or Harry Maguire could partner Lisandro Martinez in the heart of the defence against the Cityzens.

United face a daunting challenge against their arch-rivals tomorrow.