United manager Simon Grayson is facing up to the prospect of potentially losing Rui Marques early in the New Year.

The central defender, who hasn't figured in the senior side since recovering from injury, missed Tuesday's win against Accrington Stanley due to international commitments, and the defender could be set for extended duty with Angola.

"Rui's been away with Angola ahead of the African Nations," said the manager.

"They've arranged some friendlies and we're giving him that opportunity because it's representing his country.

"The African Nations is early in the New Year and I would imagine there's a fair chance he will be called up for that.

"It's something we're prepared for and we have a number of players competing in that area at the moment.

"Richard Naylor played his first game back on Tuesday, Paddy Kisnorbo came back last Saturday, and we have plenty of options there."

Rui has played in the last two African Nations Cup competitions for Angola.