Manchester Evening News

Fellaini is set for FA Cup return for Reds

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MAROUANE Fellaini could return for United in their FA Cup third round tie at home to Derby County tonight.

Fellaini has not played since November 25 due to a recurring knee injury and speculatio­n is mounting over his Old Trafford future. The 30-year-old rejected United’s offer of a new contract in September and has entered the last six months of his deal.

Romelu Lukaku could also play against Championsh­ip outfit Derby, having recovered from a head injury sustained against Southampto­n on Saturday.

Michael Carrick has returned to training but is not available for selection. The 36-year-old underwent a heart procedure earlier this season and has not played since September.

Antonio Valencia is set to be fit for the Premier League visit of Stoke on January 15 and Mourinho confirmed Sergio Romero will start in goal against The Rams.

“The good of the bad against Bristol was I that could not blame myself, that I want there to have some fun, and to play with kids and throwing away the match. It’s the only thing, you don’t blame yourself by your choice,” said Mourinho, looking back to their Carabao Cup exit.

“And I’m going to do the same against Derby County, I’m going to play with a good team, then the result is out of your control, depends on many factors, but to go with a strong team with first-team players, firstchoic­e players for sure, I’m going to play this match like a Premier League match. And I’m going to play Romero because Romero is a top, top goalkeeper and he deserves to play.”

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