Manchester United are optimistic that Matheus Cunha will be fit to face Liverpool this Sunday, with the Brazilian forward returning to training at Carrington after missing Monday's win over Brentford with a hip flexor issue.

While the 24-year-old sat out the victory at Old Trafford—a result that moved United within one win of securing Champions League football—his return to the training pitch has given manager Michael Carrick a timely boost ahead of one of the biggest fixtures on the Premier League calendar.

"Matheus has done a little bit of work so we're hopeful. We're not sure, but we're hopeful," Carrick told reporters, via the Manchester Evening News. "Mata still a bit further and not involved in the game."

The update on Luke Shaw was less definitive, with the left-back limping off against Brentford. Carrick confirmed the squad is otherwise in good health, with Matthijs de Ligt the only player still sidelined with a back complaint.

For Carrick, Sunday's clash at Old Trafford will be his first taste of the historic rivalry as manager, though he knows it well from his playing days. "One of my favourite games, without doubt," he said. "It's a standout game. There are big games and big rivalries we have with other teams, but this is right up there. The history, ups and downs, excitement, entertainment and emotion makes it a really special game."

United head into the weekend sitting third in the table, three points clear of fourth-placed Liverpool, and already holding a 2-1 win at Anfield from earlier this season. A victory on Sunday would complete a Premier League double over Arne Slot's side—a statement result for a team still building momentum.

"It shows the improvements of the group and getting stronger to be coming into this game in such a good position," Carrick added. "We're fully aware of the situation in the league and how close it is. It's a one-off game, they're a good team, they won the league last year. But we're ready."