Manchester United injury list: Ander Herrera and Phil Jones among those ready to return for West Brom

Louis van Gaal's injury headache is easing

Louis van Gaal (GETTY IMAGES)

Manchester United's injury crisis looks set to have eased by the time the Red Devils are next back in action, against West Brom on Monday night.

Louis van Gaal was hit with a crisis on a scale he claimed to have "never" seen in his entire career as a manager. News yesterday that Antonio Valencia tweaked a hamstring in the recent win over Everton appeared to have only made the situation worse.

Among those on the treatment table immediately following the 2-1 win over the Toffees were Paddy McNair (hamstring), Ander Herrera (rib), Chris Smalling (thigh), Jonny Evans (ankle), Ashley Young (groin), Phil Jones (hamstring), Jesse Lingard (knee) and Michael Carrick (ankle).

Despite the number of players of the treatment table, United have managed to win three of their last four games, propelling them up the table and into fourth-place.

Following the match at the Hawthorns against West Brom on Monday, United face Premier League pace-setters Chelsea and then Manchester City.

With such crucial games on the horizon, Van Gaal will be delighted to see his injury problems easing.

Herrera's fractured rib is not as serious as first feared, meaning the summer signing could be available for the match on Monday night. Another option in midfield, Carrick, is also nearing a return. The England international came through a behind-closed-doors game and should be in the squad for the match against the Baggies.

In defence, both Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are ready to return with both having returned to full training during the international break. Wayne Rooney however, remains suspended, with the captain in line to return for the Manchester derby.