Raphael Varane: Why Man United Defender Missed Epic FA Cup Clash vs Fulham

• Man United were without Raphael Varane during their FA Cup encounter with Fulham on Sunday
• Erik ten Hag was forced to start Harry Maguire in the heart of defence in the absence of Varane
• United went on to secure a 3-1 comeback win to book a spot in the semifinals of the competition

Manchester United centre-back Raphael Varane was not part of the team's squad that took on Fulham during their FA Cup quarter-final clash on Sunday, March 19, at Old Trafford.

Varane has been a mainstay figure in Erik ten Hag's team this season, with the Frenchman forming a formidable partnership with Lisandro Martinez at the heart of United's defence.

However, the former Real Madrid defender was nowhere to be seen during United's clash against Fulham over the weekend.

In his absence, Ten Hag drew Harry Maguire into the starting XI, with the out-of-favour Englishman partnered with Martinez in defence.

Explained: How and why Fulham received three red cards vs Manchester United

Football

Man United coped just fine without Varane as they secured a 3-1 epic comeback victory over the Cottagers to qualify for the semis.

Why Varane missed FA Cup clash

It has now emerged that Varane missed the Fulham clash due to a 'minor injury.'

While addressing the Frenchman's absence, Ten Hag hinted that the centre-back is likely to return to action after the international break.

"He’s injured. It’s difficult to say but I think it’s something small. I think he’ll recover and be back after the international break," the Dutchman said via Metro UK.

Meanwhile, United are scheduled to face Newcastle at St James Park on Sunday, April 2, in their next outing.

How Manchester United vs Fulham played out

Sports Brief had reported that Fulham's FA Cup dreams were quickly extinguished at Old Trafford after three straight red cards in quick succession put a huge dent in their dreams.

Usain Bolt meets Erik ten Hag as Manchester United beat Fulham in chaotic game

Football

Aleksandr Mitrovic scored his first FA Cup goal in the second half in a game that Fulham dominated for long periods.

However, things quickly degenerated for the London-based club when Manchester United's blistering counterattack was halted by Willian, who inadvertently stopped Jadon Sancho's shot from going in by using his hand.