Deschamps says Varane has a ‘small’ injury problem

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Raphael Varane picked up an injury during France’s late 2-1 win over Ukraine last night.

Manchester United defender Varane started the game but was substituted in the 59th minute to be replaced by Arsenal loanee William Saliba.

Varane has faced his fitness battles during his first season with United and Ralf Rangnick will hope they are not about to re-emerge.

France manager Didier Deschamps offered a brief update after the game, saying Varane has a “small problem with his foot.”

Reported United target Aurélien Tchouaméni scored the winning goal in the third minute of stoppage time and Deschamps also commented on his performance alongside Paul Pogba at the heart of midfield.

“Through this match, compared to what he had already done with us, it’s high level. He has enormous potential, with a lot of control. He had already shown it in previous matches, either when he started or when he entered.

“Young players are also growing, which is good. Aurélien has this capacity in aggressive recovery which is superior to that of Paul (Pogba). It’s good to have a balance. Paul is still carrying the ball forward anyway. In this system, their duo worked well.”

United fans will be hoping that Varane is fit for France’s next match and that he can play a full part in the run-in, with Champions League qualification still an outside prospect.

With the uncertainty over Harry Maguire’s form, Varane has been holding the defence together somewhat and his calm and pace is vital.

If Varane was out for any length of time, it would be a huge blow but the early prognosis seems good from Deschamps’ small update.