Insider — Thurs afternoon update: Michael Carrick receives seismic injury boost before crunch Chelsea trip

Kobbie Mainoo has returned to Manchester United training and is on course to make his return in time for Saturday’s trip to Stamford Bridge, according to one well-placed insider.The fan-favourite midfielder missed out against Leeds United due to a minor injury problem, but now looks set to be restored to the squad after only one game. EXCL: Kobbie Mainoo took part in group training today and is in contention to be part of the #MUFC squad against #CFC. The next 24 hours will determine his availability with Michael Carrick making the final decision on his inclusion tomorrow. / @UTDPatron pic.twitter.com/lRrTfmOpGC — Sully (@SullyTalkz) April 16, 2026DOWNLOAD THE OFFICIAL STRETTY NEWS APP FOR ALL THE LATEST UPDATES & BREAKING NEWS – STRAIGHT TO YOUR PHONE! ON APPLE & GOOGLE PLAYKobbie Mainoo targeting Chelsea return after brief injury setbackIt comes as an enormous boost for Michael Carrick, who will be navigating a depleted squad when taking on Chelsea.Both Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire will be unavailable for the clash through suspension.The former was shown a straight red for pulling Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s hair on Monday night, consequently receiving a three-match suspension for violent conduct.On the other hand, Maguire’s sending-off in the draw to Bournemouth should’ve only resulted in him missing the Leeds encounter, but it was his reaction to the red card that led to him being charged by the FA for improper conduct.As a result, it was confirmed yesterday that the veteran would have to serve a further one-game ban.It means Carrick will have to call upon a youthful centre-back partnership of Ayden Heaven (19) and Leny Yoro (20) in London this weekend.Why Mainoo could be a game-changing additionMainoo’s return also means Manuel Ugarte will likely drop back out of the XI following a lacklustre display last time out.He has now won only once in his 10 starts this campaign, which came against Newcastle United on Boxing Day.His inclusion on Monday marked the Uruguayan’s first start under Carrick. Should Mainoo and Casemiro stay fit for the final six fixtures, you’d imagine it would be his last ever for United. Appearances Starts Unused Minutes played 7 1 4 155 Ugarte’s record under Carrick (Transfermarkt)