Jose Mourinho delivers latest update on Juan Mata ahead of Man United v Everton

Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Juan Mata is set to be sidelined “for a long time” after the Manchester United playmaker underwent groin surgery last week.

The Spaniard required an operation on Friday and the club confirmed that he would be out of action for a considerable spell after going under the knife.

It remains to be seen exactly how long Mata will be sidelined for but it is clear that Mourinho fears the worst about the playmaker’s situation.

The Manchester United manager also confirmed that Chris Smalling and Phil Jones are still injured, but hinted that Paul Pogba is closing in on a return to action ahead of Tuesday’s clash with Everton.

“I don’t know about Pogba,” Mourinho told Manchester United’s website.

“I think Mata is out for a long time, Jones and Smalling for a long time, but I cannot say on Pogba.

“I cannot say he is ready for Tuesday because I don’t know. I don’t think he is such a long-term injury like the others.”

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Manchester United are currently preparing for their crunch Premier League clash against Everton at Old Trafford on Tuesday night.

The Red Devils are aiming to get back to winning ways in the Premier League after the disappointment of their goalless draw with West Brom at Old Trafford on Saturday.