Manchester United: Red Devils could have Michael Carrick back for Liverpool clash despite calf injury

Manchester United have been handed a boost as Michael Carrick's injury is believed to be a minor one, which could see him return to action for the Red Devils' clash against Liverpool on 12 September. The midfielder suffered the injury while on international duty with England ahead of their Euro 2016 qualifiers against Switzerland, which they won to book a place in the finals next year.

According to the Daily Mail, the 33-year-old midfielder has returned to Carrington after being diagnosed with a calf injury, but the manager has admitted that it is not a long-term concern. Carrick has featured in all six matches for United this season, and Louis van Gaal will be keen to have him for the visit of the Merseyside club.

The report claims that the club are convinced that the extent of the injury is very minor and believe that he can get fit in time for the clash between the two arch rivals. It is a game that is worth much more than the three points for players and fans alike, due to the deep-rooted rivalry between the two clubs.

Hodgson was disappointed for the player after he sustained the injury, but was optimistic regarding his quick return to action. Carrick has not played for the Three Lions since March, and is currently considered one of the key players at the heart of the midfield for both club and country.

"It's a major blow, not only to us but to Michael, who was looking forward to coming back. He might get over this very quickly and go on to play a big part for United and hardly miss a game," Hodgson said, as quoted by the Daily Mail.

"I hope it won't be a recurring injury, but I don't know. It's a question for United and Michael, not for me," the England manager added.