Manchester United midfielder allays fears of serious injury

Manchester United have received a massive boost after Henrikh Mkhitaryan admitted that he hopes to take part in Armenia's World Cup qualifier against Denmark on Sunday (4 September) despite coming off at half time during their friendly with Czech Republic on Wednesday night (31 August).

The Armenia international had a collision with Marek Sukhy and was withdrawn during the interval, which sparked concern regarding a serious injury. However, it is thought to be a minor issue after the midfielder revealed that he hopes to play a part in their first World Cup qualifier against the Danes.

"I hope so," Mkhitaryan responded to supporters' queries regarding his possible involvement against Denmark, as quoted by the Manchester Evening News.

The midfielder's possible involvement will come as a massive boost to Jose Mourinho as United face Manchester City in the Portuguese manager's first derby immediately after the international break. The 27-year-old is yet to start a game for the Red Devils in the Premier League following his £26m ($34.5m) move from Borussia Dortmund this summer.

The Armenian midfielder has come on as a second-half substitute in the three Premier League games thus far and has played just 59 minutes in total. He is expected to be afforded more game time in the coming weeks as Mourinho allows him time to adapt to the English top-flight.

Meanwhile, Marouane Fellaini is also a doubt for the Manchester derby on 10 September after the midfielder picked up a back injury during the Red Devils' last gasp win over Hull City which maintained their 100% start to the season. The 28-year-old midfielder, who has become a regular starter under Mourinho, has reportedly travelled to join up the Belgium squad despite being injured as they prepare for their World Cup qualifier against Cyprus.