Jose Mourinho has revealed his frustration with Ivory Coast after they refused to delay Eric Bailly’s African Nations Cup departure by a day.

The Ivory Coast international, who was suffering from a knee injury, made an impressive return to United’s starting lineup in the 2-1 win over Middlesbrough on the new year’s eve and Mourinho was hoping to have him for the clash against West Ham United on Monday. However, Ivory Coast has refused his plea and has asked the centre-back to join the national team on January 2.

“Bailly is leaving — he goes to the national team,” Mourinho said. “He has to be with them on Jan. 2. We asked them for him to be on Jan. 3 but they refused, so he cannot play against West Ham.

The 22-year old, who arrived at Old Trafford this term, has been performing solidly at the back so far and missing him will undoubtedly be a huge blow for the Red Devils. However, Phil Jones and Marco Rojo’s form will give Mourinho a lot of confidence. Chris Smalling is also fit for selection but the Portuguese tactician is concerned with the lack of options.

“With these kind of decisions they are controlling every second, so for sure they are going to win the African Cup. I know I lose Bailly for a month so I’m going to have Smalling, Rojo, Jones … three players for eight matches.”

Meanwhile, the Red Devils will be looking to continue their winning run when they take on the struggling Hammers. Jose Mourinho’s men have won their last five Premier League games and are only three points adrift of third-placed Manchester City. On the other hand, Slaven Bilic’s men are languishing 13th in the table and will have to be at their best to beat the in-form Manchester United.