United midfielder Rudy Austin is a major doubt for Tuesday night’s game with Charlton Athletic at Elland Road.

Rudy has been playing through the pain barrier in recent weeks and the midfielder was replaced at half time on Saturday during the 2-1 reverse at the hands of Doncaster Rovers.

“I think that Rudy Austin is going to struggle,” said the United boss. “He has had an ankle problem that he has been playing with. We need to take care of that and look after him.

“Rudy has been battling on like you won’t believe. He has done great for me.

“So I have got to do the right thing by him and we’ll make sure that he is right as soon as possible.”

Rudy was replaced by Michael Tonge on Saturday and after a good performance he could be the man to step into the line-up.

“Michael is a senior player that has a good mentality,” said the manager. “He is training really well and he deserved his opportunity.

“I thought that he was outstanding on Saturday.

“You need your senior players, especially when you are having a tough time.”