Manchester United travel to Stamford Bridge this weekend knowing that a difficult away fixture could have an important bearing on their Premier League season.

Their meeting with Chelsea also brings together two clubs with ambitions of competing near the top end of the table.

United will need to manage the atmosphere and intensity of an away ground where they have experienced mixed results over the years.

Carrick will also be weighing up his available options as he prepares his team for another demanding test.

With both sides looking to respond to disappointing recent results, Saturday’s encounter carries plenty of significance for the visitors.

United have received a potentially significant boost ahead of Saturday’s meeting, with Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso confirming that several first-team players will be unavailable for the contest.

Xabi Alonso confirms four Chelsea players to miss Manchester United game

Maxence Lacroix, Aaron Anselmino, Emiliano Martinez and Jorrel Hato are among those expected to miss the match, while summer signing Pep Chavarria is available again.

Lacroix picked up a hamstring injury during Chelsea’s Carabao Cup defeat to Liverpool on Wednesday, forcing him off in the closing stages of the first half.

Alonso confirmed the centre-back is unlikely to return before the international break.

“Max picked up an injury and we expect he is not going to be ready before the international break.

“He will be a few weeks out,” the Chelsea manager said.

The absence is a setback for Chelsea, who will have to adjust their defensive options against United.

Hato is also unavailable, although Alonso did not provide a detailed explanation of the defender’s condition during Friday’s update.

Goalkeeper Emiliano Martinez will also miss the game as he continues recovering from a fractured jaw.

The Argentine underwent surgery after being injured during Chelsea’s 2-0 win over Everton.

Alonso offered some encouragement over his recovery, however, suggesting that a return before the international break remains possible.

“Yes, there is a chance. We still need to wait until next week, but there’s a chance,” he said.

There was better news concerning Chavarria, who is expected to return to the matchday squad after missing recent action.

“Jorrel, no, but Pep Chavarria, yes,” Alonso confirmed when asked about the availability of the two defenders.

Chelsea are also without Joao Pedro, who is recovering from a thigh injury, while captain Reece James remains sidelined following surgery.

Moises Caicedo, meanwhile, is available after Alonso confirmed he had no issue following his substitution against Liverpool.

The latest update gives Carrick’s side a clearer picture of the Chelsea players they are likely to face at Stamford Bridge.