MANCHESTER UNITED WILL be without four key players for Saturday’s Premier League clash with Chelsea.

The in-form side are counting the cost of last weekend’s derby success with Michael Carrick, Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones and Daley Blind all having picked up injuries against Manchester City with the quartet now set for spells in the treatment room.

Carrick was forced off in the final stages of the game at Old Trafford after suffering a calf problem. Rojo replaced Jones for the final 15 minutes of the clash after the centre-half damaged his ankle but the Argentine, according to Louis van Gaal, has been struggling with a stomach issue ever since while Blind has also been ruled out with an ankle problem.

“It is the worst scenario”, said the United boss at his Friday press conference.

Marcos and Phil can both play left central defender, and Jonny Evans is also suspended so I do not have many choices. Daley Blind and Michael Carrick could have played as holding midfields and I do not have another option. It is a puzzle.”

Van Gaal did reveal he’s contemplating starting captain Wayne Rooney in a holding midfield position owing to the absences of both Carrick and Blind.

One other player assured of his place in the side is Juan Mata with Van Gaal pretty much confirming the Spaniard will retain his midfield berth.

“Normally I always put players in the lineup if they’ve played for the opponent, so I think Mata shall play.

“I think Chelsea will be satisfied with a draw, but of course they want to beat us and we want to beat them.”

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