The fitness of this Manchester United duo will be crucial to Crystal Palace this weekend

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Crystal Palace travel to Old Trafford this weekend in search of a first league win since September, with the Eagles only outside of the relegation zone on goal difference.

Yet Manchester United are facing a minor injury crisis up top, with both Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford picking up knocks while on international duty.

The fitness of the two United attackers will play a crucial role in this weekend’s match against Palace, with the Eagles potentially benefitting from a weakened Red Devils attack.

Crystal Palace have struggled defensively in the league, conceding a surprising amount of set-piece strikes this season. Although the Eagles have acquitted themselves reasonably well against the Premier League’s top sides, their defensive job would undoubtedly be boosted by the absence of Rashford and Lukaku.

Jose Mourinho has dropped Lukaku to the bench in recent matches, yet the prospect of the former Everton man coming off the bench is one Palace’s back four will not relish.

In addition, Rashford has been in good form for England, scoring two goals in his four UEFA Nations League appearances, yet has bagged just twice all season in the Premier League.

However, without Romelu Lukaku and Marcus Rashford, Manchester United’s attack is significantly weaker, a possible bonus for Crystal Palace’s back four ahead of the weekend.