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Juan Mata has lost his fight to play again for Manchester United this season, according to Jose Mourinho.

But defenders Chris Smalling and Phil Jones could creep into the Reds' manager's late-term plans.

Midfielder Mata had a hernia operation earlier in the month but, when asked about the Spaniard's fitness prospects, Mourinho said: “End of May.”

Given United's Premier League season wraps up on May 21 against Crystal Palace at Old Trafford, before a potential Europa League final conclusion in Stockholm on May 24, it looks grim for Mata.

However, Mourinho believes his defence could be stiffened before the end of the campaign.

Chris Smalling and Phil Jones were both injured on England international duty recently but their prospects of comebacks for the end of term are brighter.

Asked about the pair Mourinho said: “Mid-May.”