Erik ten Hag believes Casemiro, Lisandro Martinez, and Mason Mount will not be able to play for the first team until mid-January 2024.

Casemiro and Martinez have been spotted at Carrington in recent weeks, raising expectations that they will be able to return to the matchday squad for at least part of the festive season.

However, at his pre-match press conference prior of the West Ham United encounter, the manager was more cautious.

When asked to elaborate on the expected return date for the South Americans, Erik stated, “They are not available before Christmas.” We expect them to return in mid-January.”

Another query concerned midfielder Mason Mount, who has not featured since the 1-0 win against Luton Town on November 11.

Casemiro and Martinez played a combined 96 games for United in all competitions in 2022/23, contributing significantly to the team’s third-place finish in the Premier League.

We wish them the best of luck with their rehabilitation programs and hope to see them back in the red shirt as soon as feasible in 2024.