Manchester United short of defensive options for Chelsea game

London: Manchester United`s Michael Carrick, Marcos Rojo, Phil Jones and Daley Blind will miss Saturday`s Premier League clash against leaders Chelsea because of injury, manager Louis van Gaal said on Friday.

"It is the worst scenario," Van Gaal told a news conference. 

"Marcos and Phil can both play left central defender and Jonny Evans is also suspended so I do not have many choices.

"Daley Blind and Michael Carrick could play as a holding midfield player and I do not have another option. It is a puzzle."

Third-placed United arrive at Stamford Bridge on a run of six successive league victories and buoyed by their 4-2 derby demolition of champions Manchester City last weekend.

Chelsea boast a seven-point lead over second-placed Arsenal with seven games remaining this season.