Marcus Rashford’s potential availability to play against Sevilla in the second leg of the Europa League quarter final has received more encouraging word from Old Trafford.

Ten Hag told Guardian reporter Jamie Jackson, as was previously reported here last night, that there was a chance the England player might return in time for the match.

This has now been confirmed by Laurie Whitwell of The Athletic, who directly quotes Ten Hag as saying, “There is a chance but I can’t confirm it at this time.”

Rashford’s early return would be a much-needed boost for a Manchester United team that is presently devastated by injuries.

It had the appearance of a groin strain, which typically requires 3 to 6 weeks of recovery.

Less than two weeks have passed since Rashford suffered the pull, if he is ready to play on Thursday.

This is great news for United because it suggests a very slight muscle tear rather than any tendon damage.

Despite the growing injury issues in defense, the midfield and attack look much healthier with Anthony Martial returning to full match fitness, Christian Eriksen on the comeback trail as well, and Casemiro returning from suspension.

Yesterday at halftime, Raphael Varane left the field. The manager said, “That injury, he complained [about it] over the last couple of weeks and we have to see how it is now.”

Ten Hag said of Lisandro’s ankle problem: “I cannot tell what it is, but it is not an Achilles. He had to be carried off the field.” I spoke with him, and he is calm and doing fine.

He would still be out for the season if the fifth metatarsal were broken, according to reports making the rounds on social media.

Such wounds typically heal in 6 to 8 weeks.