Watford could be taking on a Manchester United team on Saturday that could be without as many as eight players due to injury.

Defenders Luke Shaw (broken leg) and Paddy McNair (abdomen) and midfielder Antonio Valencia (foot) are long-term absentees while Michael Carrick will miss the game after suffering an ankle injury while representing England against Spain last week.

The Red Devils’ marquee summer signing Anthony Martial is also a serious doubt after he left Wembley Stadium on crutches last night following France’s friendly against England.

Defender Chris Smalling didn’t feature in the friendly due to a knock while Marouane Fellaini and young striker James Wilson are also a doubts. All three will face fitness tests later in the week.