Anthony Martial’s hugely encouraging performance against CSKA Moscow in the Champions League has come at a cost after he limped off with a thigh injury.

Mourinho has not ruled Martial out at this stage, but given the rapid turnaround before the visit of Crystal Palace to Old Trafford on Saturday, his involvement seems unlikely.

United’s manager could not resist airing his frustrations about the fixture list, despite his team’s brilliant European performance, warning the team would face a far “fresher opponent” at the weekend as a result of the draining demands put on his own.

The lack of help given to English teams in Europe by their domestic schedule has been a long-term cause of irritation to the Portuguese and he feels teams who travel such long distances in European competitions, particularly on a Wednesday night, should not be made to play on a Saturday afternoon. The potential loss of Martial will not help his mood.

Martial was at the centre of so much of United’s thrilling attacking play against CSKA and appears to have rediscovered his best form after a difficult first season under Jose Mourinho.