Erik ten Hag clarifies Wout Weghorst availability for Manchester derby

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Wout Weghorst will not be available to make his debut against Manchester City on Saturday.

The Red Devils host their neighbourhood rivals in the day’s early kick-off, and United had initially hoped to register the Dutch striker – who is joining on loan from Burnley until the end of the season – in time to be part of Ten Hag’s matchday squad.

But speaking to the media for his pre-match duties, Ten Hag admitted that although a deal is imminent “he will not be available for tomorrow.”

United’s boss also ruled Diogo Dalot out of contention to face City, who trail Premier League leaders Arsenal by five points, which is likely to see a resurgent Aaron Wan-Bissaka continue at right-back.

Portugal international Dalot came off 35 minutes into the midweek win over Charlton in the Carabao Cup quarter-final, but has not recovered in time to be part of Ten Hag’s squad.

Ten Hag also spoke about the fitness of forward Anthony Martial, who continues to struggle with niggling injuries that have disrupted his season so far. Ten Hag said of the Frenchman: “Anthony Martial trained this morning, so we have to wait how he recovered from his training and that will be decided tomorrow.

“It is a small thing in his leg so it will be better tomorrow or he will be available for Wednesday.”

United have been boosted by the news, however, that City will be without John Stones for the game, with regular centre-back partner Ruben Dias also sidelined through injury.