Manchester United’s injury problems have continued to disrupt Michael Carrick’s plans during one of their worst starts to a season in several years.

Manuel Ugarte faces a lengthy spell out after suffering a serious knee ligament injury, while Benjamin Sesko is also expected to be unavailable until the new year.

Marcus Rashford’s hip problem has limited Carrick’s attacking options, and Luke Shaw has missed recent matches with a knock.

The situation has placed added importance on the players who are returning to fitness, particularly with a demanding run of fixtures approaching.

Manchester United star returns to training after 5 week injury absence

United have now been handed an encouraging development ahead of their Champions League meeting with Roma, with Patrick Dorgu returning to training after more than a month out, as the club revealed on their website.

The 21-year-old was among the players pictured working at Carrington on Monday, giving Carrick a potential boost before United welcome the Italian side to Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

Patrick Dorgu has not featured since the 1-1 draw away to Fulham back in September.

He came off the bench in that match and provided the assist for Matheus Cunha’s equaliser, but his progress was interrupted just days later while on international duty with Denmark.

The defender started Denmark’s 2-0 Nations League victory over Wales but was forced off after approximately 30 minutes with a hamstring problem.

Denmark head coach Brian Riemer confirmed that Dorgu would leave the national camp and return to Manchester for assessment and treatment.

Carrick subsequently revealed that the injury would keep him out for a number of weeks.

His return comes at an important point for United, particularly given the flexibility he offers across the left side.

Signed from Lecce in February 2025 in a deal worth an initial £25.2 million, potentially rising with add-ons, Dorgu arrived with a reputation as an energetic, attack-minded defender.

He signed a contract until 2030, with the option of another year.

Carrick has largely used him in a more advanced role rather than as a conventional left-back.

The United boss has previously explained that Dorgu can operate in several positions, including on either flank, while insisting that he remains capable of playing in defence.

The Dane has also made it clear that left-back is his preferred position, despite being deployed further forward for much of his time under Carrick.

Dorgu has made five Premier League appearances this season, recording one assist, and his return would give Carrick another option as United look to improve their fortunes in Europe.

His involvement against Roma is not guaranteed, however, and the club will be cautious about rushing him back after a hamstring injury.

With United needing a response following their recent defeat to Chelsea, having another versatile option available would be a welcome boost for Carrick.