Manchester United manager Ralf Rangnick has explained the absence of three players for Wednesday night’s Premier League clash at Brentford. 

The Red Devils bounced back to winning ways with a resounding 3-1 win in a scintillating second-half performance. 

Anthony Elanga opened the scores, before a goal each from Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford. 

Why Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo returned to the starting team, there was a notable absence as Edinson Cavani, Luke Shaw and Jadon Sancho were all unavailable.

Speaking to club media at the Brentford Community Stadium pre-match, Rangnick explained why the players could not be included in teh team. 

“Edinson had to drop out after training yesterday,” Rangnick told MUTV’s Stewart Gardner.

“He had a muscular problem, so for me, it was logical. I’m happy to have Cristiano back in the team.

“Luke, unfortunately, also had to pull out after yesterday’s training. He had some hamstring problems after yesterday’s training session.”

Rangnick further revealed Jadon Sancho was absent due to personal reasons.

“A close family member passed away and the funeral was today so Jadon asked to not be part of the squad tonight.”

Scott McTominay returned to the team, same as Ronaldo, who replaced Cavani upfront. 

“Scotty was out because he got suspended for the Villa game and I decided to play him from the start today,” explained Rangnick.

United’s next assignment is a home tie against David Moyes’ West Ham.