Liverpool vs Manchester United: Michael Carrick and Bastian Schweinsteiger likely to miss Anfield trip

Manchester United are expected to be without Michael Carrick and Bastian Schweinsteiger for their Premier League clash with Liverpool. Schweinsteiger missed the 3-3 draw with Newcastle United on Wednesday 13 January after picking up knee injury in the 1-0 win over Sheffield United in the FA Cup.

While the German is closing in on his return, Louis van Gaal believes the midfielder needs more time before he is ready. Carrick, meanwhile, was also absent from the squad that drew on Tyneside and speaking at a press conference ahead of the trip to Anfield, Van Gaal confirmed he will not be in contention on Sunday.

Antonio Valencia and Marcos Rojo are also still unavailable.

"I think we have the same injuries as before," Van Gaal said, United's official website reports. "Maybe Schweinsteiger is coming back but that is not sure. It is very tight to regain – he needs more time, I think.

"[Carrick] is also injured; we have forgotten to mention it but he was injured. He is still injured so he cannot play either.

Van Gaal added that Phil Jones, who suffered a recurrence of an ankle injury in the recent victory over Swansea City, could be back but suggested Sunday may be too soon for the 23-year-old. Valencia and Rojo are currently sidelined with foot and shoulder injuries respectively.

"Jones is possible but [Marcos] Rojo, [Antonio] Valencia and [Luke] Shaw need a longer time. They are not ready yet."

Adnan Januzaj could have a role to play on Merseyside, however. The 20-year-old returned from his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund earlier this month but has not featured in any matchday squads since his comeback. Van Gaal has warned the Belgium international must first get his fitness up to scratch with the club's Under-21 ranks, but he could name him on the bench for the Liverpool game.