He is set to miss Northern Ireland’s Euro 2024 qualifiers against Finland and Denmark as a result – though Michael O’Neill’s side are already out of contention anyway.

It also means he will miss United’s game against Luton on Saturday, their last match before the international break.

Jonny Evans will be absent for several weeks after straining his thigh against Copenhagen

The 35-year-old centre-back unexpectedly forced his way into the starting 11 in recent games

Evans had made eight appearances for United this season after rejoining the club for the first time since 2015 in the summer, signing a one-year contract.

His stint in the first team came as a surprise, with Erik ten Hag opting for him in favour of Varane.

It came as a particular shock when he was selected over the Frenchman for the ill-fated Manchester derby, which United lost 3-0.

Yet Evans has acquitted himself reasonably well since his return to Old Trafford and brings the experience of winning three Premier League titles and a Champions League crown from his first spell at the club.

Ten Hag explained that Varane was left out for ‘tactical reasons’.

Victor Lindelof is another option to take his place after an illness kept him out of the squad for the 1-0 win over Fulham at Craven Cottage.

Whether Evans will be back in time for United’s trip to Everton on November 26 or their crunch Champions League visit to Galatasaray on November 29 remains unclear.