But Lindegaard was left screaming in agony after
injuring an ankle in training and United's medical team fear he has
damaged ligaments.
It is the last news boss Alex Ferguson needed
after crashing out of the FA Cup to their big rivals.
And 21-year-old De Gea was again under fire for
his display at Anfield.
The Spaniard failed to deal with a corner for
Liverpool's opener in the 2-1 loss, dropped a simple cross and
knocked one clearance straight to Stewart Downing.
Fergie's selection of De Gea at Anfield had raised
eyebrows after 27-year-old Lindegaard appeared to have stolen a
march in the battle to be United's first-choice keeper.
He had played in all but the Boxing Day loss to
Blackburn in United's last six games and was set to get a recall
against Stoke.
But now Fergie will be forced to stick with De Gea
for the arrival of Tony Pulis' heavy artillery at Old Trafford.
United are also set to be without Wayne Rooney
again after he missed Saturday's defeat with a damaged ankle.
But Rio Ferdinand, on the bench at Anfield, will
be back in action.
Winger Nani is also close to a return after
suffering a badly-bruised foot and could feature in Sunday's trip
to Chelsea.
Phil Jones, who injured an ankle in the league win
over Arsenal, is also nearing a comeback.
