Manchester United are taking on Crystal Palace in their third pre-season game of the summer and final matchday in Melbourne before they make the trip to Perth, where they will face Aston Villa.
Raphael Varane is one of the players in desperate need of a strong pre-season but so far, the Frenchman has struggled to stay fit.
The 29-year-old started the 4-0 win over Liverpool but doubts arose before that game after he missed training the day before. He sat out the 4-1 win over Melbourne Victory last week and now, he has been left out of the squad to face Crystal Palace.
In a statement published prior to kick-off at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, the club explained his absence, confirming that Varane and James Garner will miss the game due to precautions over their fitness.
Read more: (Video) Erik ten Hag insists Man Utd star is not for sale
“Raphael Varane and James Garner are not in the matchday squad but this is only as a precaution and they will continue to train with the group,” the club wrote on their official website.
SN’s verdict…
Varane struggled with injuries for most of last season and the last thing he needs now is having his preparations disrupted by minor niggles.
Furthermore, United’s acquisition of Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez could hint that hopes of Varane keeping fit over the entire season are low.
It is, however, good news that Varane’s exclusion is strictly precautionary and he should be back by the time United face Aston Villa later this week.
Am aman u fan for all time from uganda mbarara city, always send for me my dream club updates always