Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag says Tyrell Malacia will be available ‘at short notice’ following a setback with his troublesome knee injury.

Malacia, who was the first signing Ten Hag made for the club, has yet to feature this season. He played 22 games for United in the Premier League during his debut campaign.

United have been hit harder than most when it comes to injuries this term. That has been particularly problematic at left-back with issues for all their senior options.

Luke Shaw has only just recovered from his own setback, while stop-gap loan addition Sergio Reguilon has spent time in the treatment room himself. However, looking ahead, United should soon be back to their full quota at full-back with other injured players also ‘working hard’ to make themselves available.

Speaking in his matchday Q&A before the Newcastle contest, Ten Hag said: “There are updates. Tyrell Malacia had surgery, but he will return in quite short notice.

“From the New Year onwards, he can be available. What’s also very good is Luke Shaw has made his return.

“We are very happy with that. Also, the others, they are working very hard to return as soon as possible.”

United could be without seven players for Premier League match against Newcastle on Saturday night. In addition to Malacia, they are also missing Casemiro, Christian Eriksen, Lisandro Martinez, Jonny Evans and Amad Diallo, while England regular Mason Mount is doubtful with a calf problem.

Newcastle have their own injury concerns, though. They are without 11 players at St. James’ Park.