After midweek heartache in the Carabao Cup, which saw us exit the competition after a penalty shootout defeat to Liverpool, the Blues’ focus has switched back to the Premier League.

Our opening eight top-flight fixtures have yielded 13 points and put us fifth in the early-season table. United, in contrast, sit 16th having won just once thus far in the league.

Alonso will be forced into changes against the Red Devils, one of which will be deciding who replaces Lacroix after the centre-back came off during Wednesday’s game at Anfield.

‘Max picked up an injury and we expect that he will not be ready before the international break,’ the Blues manager explained in his pre-match press conference. ‘So he will be a few weeks out.’

Alonso also confirmed that Jorrel Hato will be absent against United, but Pep Chavarria is in contention after missing our last three matches.

Caicedo is also available despite coming off in the second half against Liverpool. ‘No issue', replied Alonso when asked about the Ecuadorian. ‘He is ok for tomorrow.’

There was also an update provided on Argentine duo Aaron Anselmino, who has yet to feature this season, and Emi Martinez.

On Anselmino, Alonso said: ‘He is not available yet. He has had a few things, a few injuries, and it will take a few weeks until he is fully fit. We need to be cautious with him as he's had a few of them, so he is still not there.'

Martinez has been sidelined since our victory at Everton, after which he required jaw surgery following a clash with Jarrad Branthwaite. But Alonso believes it is possible the 34-year-old will be available before the international break.

‘Yes, there is a chance,' he said. 'We need to still wait for next week, but let’s see how things go. But there is a chance.’