Injury crisis: Carrick will be without four key Man United players vs Crystal Palace
Manchester United return to Premier League action on Sunday with a tricky encounter against Crystal Palace.
Ahead of the game, United head coach Michael Carrick has delivered the key team news and it may raise a few eyebrows among the club supporters.
Patrick Dorgu sustained a hamstring setback in the 3-2 victory over Arsenal last month. He is expected to be on the sidelines for at least another month.
Matthijs de Ligt has not featured since November 30, with a persistent back problem keeping him out of action.
Carrick provided an update on De Ligt. He said (via ManUtd.com): “Matthijs, he is had a back issue, which has been a little bit slower to progress really.
“It’s a difficult one to pin down, especially time-wise. He is definitely improving, so that’s a good thing and we’re just working towards that really. There’s not much more I can give at this stage.”
De Ligt had initially been pencilled in for a return last month but suffered a minor setback. While surgery is not thought to be required, the lack of a clear timeline will frustrate fans.
Another blow is the absence of Mason Mount, who has missed the last four matchday squads with a knock.
He said: “Mason is getting closer really. He is on the grass and he’s getting closer, he is looking to train and be in around it pretty soon.
“He is just had to be patient really and he is a big player so we’re looking after him, making sure he is ready for a big finish to the season.”
When fully fit, the former Chelsea midfielder offers intelligence and intensity in the final third, contributing both in possession and through relentless off-the-ball work.
Lisandro Martinez is the fourth senior figure missing from the squad. The Argentina international was absent from the narrow 1-0 win over Everton due to a calf issue.
Carrick provided an update over Martinez to club media. He said: “Licha is a lot closer than Patrick is. It will be a matter of days hopefully, it won’t be too long.
“We’ll assess him over the next day or two, and see where he is.”
Palace find themselves navigating a turbulent spell under manager Oliver Glasner.
For United, this represents a timely opportunity to compound the Eagles’ struggles and edge closer to a coveted UEFA Champions League qualification spot.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .