Manchester United's preparations for a massive Premier League clash at Chelsea have received a major lift, with midfield starlet Kobbie Mainoo back in training and targeting a return at Stamford Bridge this Saturday.

The fan-favourite midfielder, who missed Monday's match with a minor issue, is poised to rejoin the squad after just one game out. His comeback is a timely boost for manager Michael Carrick, who faces a significant defensive reshuffle due to suspensions.

United will be without both Lisandro Martínez, serving a three-game ban for his red card against Everton, and Harry Maguire, who received an additional one-match suspension for his reaction to a sending-off. This likely forces Carrick to field a young centre-back pairing of 19-year-old Ayden Heaven and 20-year-old Leny Yoro in a high-pressure London fixture.

Mainoo's expected return also reshapes the midfield. It likely means Manuel Ugarte drops out of the starting lineup after a difficult performance against Leeds. Ugarte has struggled for form this season, with just one win in his ten starts, and his long-term future at the club appears uncertain if Mainoo and Casemiro remain fit.

This weekend's trip to Chelsea is a crucial test in United's push for European qualification. Mainoo's energy and composure in midfield could be vital in navigating a depleted squad and securing a positive result against a direct rival.