Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal has admitted that Michael Carrick is still not ready to feature from the start of a match.
The Englishman has been out of action with a calf injury since January, but was on the bench for Saturday's 2-0 win over Sunderland.
At a press conference on Tuesday, Van Gaal was asked whether Carrick could start Wednesday's clash against Newcastle United, but the Dutchman has conceded that the midfielder is still not ready.
"As a substitute you can play 20 minutes, which he can do," said Van Gaal.
Robin van Persie is United's only injury for the trip to St James' Park, meaning that Luke Shaw and Phil Jones could both return to the XI.
