Manchester United defender Raphael Varane was not in the squad for the Carabao Cup defeat against Newcastle.

The Frenchman was dropped to the bench for “tactical” reasons by manager Erik ten Hag for the Manchester derby but he didn’t even make the bench on Wednesday night.

According to the Manchester Evening News, Varane was not involved due to illness, and it remains to be seen whether he will return against Fulham this weekend.

Questions about the World Cup winner’s form have been raised this season, with ten Hag deciding to select a 35-year-old Jonny Evans ahead of him in the last 2 league fixtures.

Since the international break, Varane has only made the starting lineup once, and that was the 1-0 win over FC Copenhagen in the Champions League.

United have been dealt another injury blow after the loss to Newcastle

Casemiro was forced off at half-time against the Magpies, with ten Hag having said that the Brazilian international will be unavailable for the trip to Craven Cottage.

He had only just returned from an ankle injury, and it has not yet been confirmed whether the midfielder has suffered a recurrence of the same problem.

Who else is on United’s injury list?

There are four other players currently on the sidelines. Amad Diallo is the closest to returning to full fitness. The Ivorian picked up a knee injury in pre-season but he has been pictured back out on the grass at Carrington for the first time as he steps up his recovery.

Luke Shaw is still out of contention with a muscular problem. The fullback was last seen in action against Tottenham back in mid-August.

Lisandro Martinez has had surgery on a broken metatarsal and he is not expected to be ready to play again until the New Year. Tyrell Malacia is on the mend after having an operation on his knee at the end of last season.

Is Erik ten Hag to blame for United’s bad form? Watch our pundits debate on Shots!TV here