Erik ten Hag has said he expects Lisandro Martinez and Casemiro to return for Manchester United next month.
Martinez has not featured since the defeat at Bayern Munich in September, having aggravated a previous foot issue sustained last season.
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The Argentine centre-back, who enjoyed a strong debut season with the Red Devils last term, underwent surgery to correct the problem and returned to training last month.
Ten Hag was asked on a potential return date for the defender, with fellow centre-backs Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof also currently sidelined.
Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane are expected to start in central defence at West Ham this weekend after the Dutchman ruled out Martinez and midfielder Casemiro, out with a hamstring injury, for the festive schedule.
“We have some doubts, we have some illnesses during the week, so we have to see who is available for tomorrow,” Ten Hag said at his pre-match press conference, ahead of the trip to the London Stadium.
“They [Martinez and Casemiro] are not available before Christmas. Mid-January, we expect them back.
“Mason Mount is similar, into January. Harry Maguire, I expect him early on [in the new year]. Victor Lindelof is not available. He has done surgery so he will be out for a couple of weeks.”
Ten Hag hopes his team can build on a goalless draw at Liverpool last time out, as his injury-hit squad earned a point at Anfield.
“First of all we have had a busy programme, we have given some days off [to players] as we go into a busy week again with three games.
“They [players] needed a rest and to get away from football for their mentality.
“They are fresh and we can go into a massive week. It is a great opportunity for us, but a good result at Liverpool gives the team confidence that we can compete with the best teams in this league.
“We have to take the next steps and demand more to make that step forward.”
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