Manchester United: Michael Carrick could return for Everton clash after making injury progress

Manchester United have received a boost ahead of their clash against Everton as reports suggest that midfielder Michael Carrick could return to the side.

The Red Devils midfielder, who limped out with a calf injury during United's win over neighbours Manchester City is said to have made a considerable amount of progress and could make the trip to Goodison Park on 26 April, according to the Mirror.

Carrick also missed United's 1-0 defeat to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge on 18 April, along with fellow midfielder Daley Blind and defenders Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones.

Louis van Gaal will be desperate for one of his midfielders to return for the clash against the Merseyside club, as he was forced to push back Wayne Rooney for the clash against the Blues. And the striker could be set for another run out in the middle of the park in their absence.

Earlier in the week, reports suggested that the trio of Rojo, Jones and Blind would be available for the trip to Everton, while Carrick remained a doubt. The manager will be desperate to have him back, as he has been a key player in United's recent run of victories against Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester City.

Carrick has had a season blighted by injuries, and this has seen him miss a big chunk of games for United throughout the campaign.

But the manager is a big admirer of the midfielder and this was confirmed when the England international was handed a one-year extension on his current deal, keeping him at the club until the end of next season.

On a positive note for the Dutch manager, compatriot Robin van Persie will be pushing for a start after being an unused substitute during their game against Chelsea. He has improved his fitness further after playing 62 minutes for the United U21 side against Leicester City on 20 April.