Manchester United vs Swansea City: Federico Fernandez doubtful for Old Trafford visit

Swansea City defender Federico Fernandez is a doubt for the trip to Manchester United due to a heel injury. The Uruguay international missed the goalless draw with Crystal Palace in the club's final game of 2015 and has missed training ahead of the resumption of the campaign.

Fernandez has been a key part of the Swans defence this season, making 15 starts in the top flight amid a harrowing start to the campaign for the south Wales side. Wayne Routledge, who also missed the stalemate at Selhurst Park, is however fit to return but both Franck Tabanou and Eder will not be risked for the match on Saturday (2 January 2016).

"Federico Fernandez didn't train again but apparently there is a big improvement," Curtis said in a pre-match press conference to preview the trip to United, according to the club's official website. "Wayne Routledge did train so as far as I am aware we are ok. Franck Tabanou has trained as well although it is going to take him a little while.

"Eder joined in today for the first time but we are probably looking at the Oxford [FA Cup third round] game for him. That is it apart from Federico who is a slight concern for the weekend but hopefully he'll be okay. He has a bruised heel.

"I think he has a good chance but he didn't train. He'll need to do something by Friday to give him a chance to play. We adapted, Jordi Amat came in and did exceptionally well but Federico is an important player for us."

Curtis' side will arrive at Old Trafford having won their last three meetings with United in the Premier League. Louis van Gaal's side have not won in eight games following the draw with Chelsea but Curtis says his side will not be underestimating their illustrious opposition.

"We've done exceptionally well against them in the last three games," said Curtis. "But we know it will be a tough game and we'll have to be at our best again. There's a confidence creeping back into us with the results we've had and the performances have been excellent too.

"Some of their (Manchester United) results have been a little indifferent but they were excellent against Chelsea on Monday and the game could have swung their way on another day.
"We've just got to go there and perform, be bold and play our football."