It is understood David de Gea is unavailable through illness and Henderson, who celebrates his 25th birthday today, is expected to come in.
Henderson reported at The Lowry Hotel on Friday night even though the majority of the United squad did not. Security was present in anticipation of United’s arrival but only Henderson, Aaron Wan-Bissaka, and some coaching staff members arrived.
There have been suggestions Atletico Madrid’s La Liga win over Cadiz on Friday night played a factor in the unexpected alteration to United’s preparations. Atletico won 2-1 ahead of their Champions League round-of-16 second leg at United on Tuesday.
Henderson has not played in the Premier League since the final day of last season at Wolves and has made three appearances this season against West Ham in the League Cup, Young Boys in the Champions League group stage, and Middlesbrough in the FA Cup.
De Gea has started in all 28 of United’s league matches so far this season and today’s game will be only the fifth league fixture he has missed through injury or illness in 10-and-a-half years at the club.
Henderson could keep his place for the Atletico tie if De Gea has not recovered. United then does not have a game for 18 days.
Gareth Southgate is due to name his England squad on Thursday and Henderson has not been called up since the European Championship, which he had to withdraw from after one game due to a hip injury.
