Manager Erik ten Hag said ahead of Thursday's Premier League clash that Manchester United would face Chelsea, who may be 12th in the Premier League, but they have the potential to win.

United are sixth in the table with 48 points, 11 behind fourth-placed Aston Villa, but with a hand in hand and need to win at Stamford Bridge to secure the Champions League.

They beat Mauricio Pochettino's Chelsea 2-1 at Old Trafford in December thanks to a double from Scott McTominay.

“It's a tough competition, it's very tough,” Ten Hag told reporters.

“Chelsea are a great team, have great players and play very good football, they can beat a lot of teams.

Injured United defenders Lisandro Martinez and Victor Lindelof face at least a month out with muscle problems.

With defense issues, the return of Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans back to training is a welcome addition for the Dutchman.

Frenchman Varane was replaced by Harry Maguire in the 46th minute in a 1-1 draw at Brentford on Saturday as Northern Irishman Evans missed United's last two games.

“No more problems, we do not need it,” said Ten Hag.

Our front line and midfield are fine, still our defense. But the good news is that this afternoon Varane and Evans returned, Maguire returned to training yesterday.

He said United would deal with an increase in muscle problems, with injuries seriously disrupting the club.