Ole Gunnar Solskjaer admits it is unlikely Harry Maguire will return in time for the Europa League final as the defender continues his recovery from an ankle injury.

Maguire has not featured since being withdrawn after sustaining ankle ligament damage in the win over Aston Villa this month, with the Red Devils’ captain facing a race against time to prove his fitness for the Europa League final and England’s European Championship campaign.

The 27-year-old was seen wearing a protective boot and crutches during United’s draw with Fulham on Tuesday, but was pictured two days later walking unaided at the premiere of the new Sir Alex Ferguson film.

Solskjaer has now provided an update on the defender’s fitness ahead of Sunday’s clash with Wolves, insisting Maguire’s condition is improving but that he is still some way from a first-team return.

The Norwegian admitted that the star is unlikely to feature as United face Villarreal in the Europa League final on Wednesday, as the Red Devils look to finish the season with silverware.

“He is walking but it is a long way from that to running,” Solskjaer said at his pre-match press conference. “We will give him every chance but I don’t think we will see him in Gdansk.

“Steadily but surely he is improving but ligaments take time to heal.”

United also have doubts over both Scott Mctominay and Fred ahead of their season finale at Molineux, whilst Daniel James and Anthony Martial are also bidding to prove their fitness ahead of Wednesday’s final.

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