Speaking at his pre-match press conference on Thursday, United manager Erik ten Hag described the Portuguese as a 'doubt' because of a hand problem. He has recently been wearing a protective cast and it remains to be seen if he will once again be able to play through the pain barrier. Fernandes has never missed a United game through injury since joining the club from Sporting Lisbon just over four years ago, meaning it would take something extreme to force him to miss out. Ten Hag said the midfielder will "do his best" to be involved.
But amid the prospect of him not making the cut, United will be forced into making a change in midfield they never usually have to think about. With that said, MEN Sport has had a look at three ways United could line up in London if the skipper is deemed unavailable.
MOUNT BAGS A START
After making six substitute appearances since returning from a long-term injury lay-off in March, Mason Mount will be desperate to start at Selhurst Park in the event of Fernandes missing out.
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