Manchester United could be without four players for Saturday’s early Premier League kick-off against Everton.
The Red Devils secured a dramatic 2-1 comeback triumph over Villarreal in the Champions League on Wednesday night.
They were second best for most of the game but ended up with a victory after Cristiano Ronaldo bagged a 95th-minute winner.
David de Gea had another superb outing between the sticks with six saves. He kept his team in the game in the opening half.
The win ended United’s two-match losing run across all competitions, and they will be aiming for another victory tomorrow.
Ahead of the game, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer provided a fitness update where he confirmed the absence of three players.
Solskjaer confirmed that Marcus Rashford has returned to contract training after shoulder surgery and should be ready after the break.
He told Manutd.com: “Marcus is fit – he’s worked really hard, but he’s not had any contact [until now].
“If his shoulder can take the contact now, he should be ready after the internationals.”
Meanwhile, Harry Maguire (calf) and Amad Traore (fitness) remain on the sidelines, but Shaw will be assessed as he is still carrying a shoulder injury from last weekend.
He added: “Luke feels better in himself. He’s been ill, but he’s still got the shoulder injury.
“Harry is still out and Amad is still out. We didn’t lose anyone on Wednesday night.”
Our view:
The absence of Maguire is a big blow for the Red Devils, but they have sufficient cover in their ranks in the form of Victor Lindelof and Eric Bailly.
Lindelof had a mixed performance against Villarreal, but that was caused by Diogo Dalot struggling to cope with the threat of Arnaut Danjuma.
The Swede will be keen to redeem himself tomorrow if he gets the opportunity to partner Raphael Varane in the heart of the defence.
Luke Shaw has been one of the Premier League’s most consistent left-backs over the past year, and it is unfortunate that he has recently been sidelined with a shoulder concern.
He has overcome his injury record of the past, but Solskjaer may handle him with caution. It won’t be a surprise if Alex Telles continues from the starting line-up.
Telles has been impressive with the attacking facet of his game, and he should be full of confidence after bagging his maiden club goal with a stunning volley against Villarreal.
Rashford’s absence has not been felt with the vast attacking options in the squad, but his return should only make the team better as he will provide more goals from out wide.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com.
Read: Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot thrilled after surprise Portugal call-up.
You must be logged in to post a comment Login