A raft of absentees is the last thing Michael Carrick needs right now.

But that unfortunately appears to be the case for the embattled Manchester United boss ahead of the Red Devils' bumper Champions League clash against Como on Wednesday evening.

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Multiple reports claim six United players did not train on Tuesday.

Which Manchester United players did not train?

Ayden Heaven, Kobbie Mainoo, Marcus Rashford, Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu were all reported to be absent.

Martinez was taken off at half-time during United's 1-1 draw with Leeds on Sunday as Carrick confirmed the centre-back 'felt his thigh a little bit'.

Noussair Mazraoui replaced the Argentina international against Leeds and could reprise his role against Como should Martinez get ruled out.

Mainoo has missed United's last two fixtures after he picked up an injury in the 1-1 draw with Tottenham, although Carrick is yet to disclose the nature of the issue.

Shaw, who was seen limping after the Spurs fixture, also did not feature against Atletico Madrid or Leeds.

Rashford was an unused substitute against Leeds on Sunday but is 'managing an injury issue' according to United, while Heaven is dealing with illness.

As for Dorgu, he is yet to overcome a hamstring injury suffered while on international duty with Denmark.

Benjamin Sesko remains absent with a shin injury.

Michael Carrick's looming defensive crisis

Adding to what could be a defensive selection nightmare for Carrick is Leny Yoro, who is suspended due to being sent off against Atleti.

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Diogo Dalot and Harry Maguire look likely to reprise their respective roles in the line-up having started Sunday's draw against Leeds.

Mazraoui, while capable of playing across the back four, is primarily a right-back, which makes him a likely candidate to play in that position against Como.

That could allow a return to action for Dutch centre-back Matthijs de Ligt.

De Ligt has not featured for the Red Devils since last November having been forced to undergo back surgery.

Alternatively, Carrick could drag Dalot over to right-back and put Mazraoui in at centre-back, with Harry Amass to come in on the left side of defence.

Carrick could even make room for teenage defenders Dan Armer and Jaydan Kamason in the matchday squad, as the duo took part in United's training on Tuesday.