Louis van Gaal could be forced to turn to Manchester United's youngsters for this weekend's clash with West Ham United.
The Red Devils are currently experiencing an injury crisis which is likely to prompt van Gaal to hand starts to at least three largely inexperienced players at Old Trafford this Saturday.
Jonny Evans, Phil Jones and Chris Smalling are all out injured while Tyler Blackett is suspended, leaving summer signing Marcos Rojo as the only recognised defender who is available.
Rojo's fellow recruit Luke Shaw could make his Red Devils debut against the Hammers, as could 19-year old Paddy McNair, while midfielders Daley Blind and Darren Fletcher are being considered for a centre-back role alongside the Argentina international.
Ahead of the meeting with Sam Allardyce's West Ham, van Gaal said: "We have nine injuries and one suspension with Blackett.
"The younger players can have their chance now.
"All the three right-sided centre-halves are out, I don't know how long they will be out for.
"Evans is a very difficult one. His bone is bruised a lot and we have to wait and see, to evaluate it.
"Smalling yesterday ran out of the training session because he had stiff legs.
"We have to see what that means but I don't take risks with players."
Of the club's young players, the Dutchman added: "They are always ready, I think.
"They have hunger to play the game and Manchester United youth education has a certain level that can provide that.
"It's a big difference, but in one game you can show yourself."
