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Academy

Worry as Ethan Laird picks up injury for United under-23s

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Young United talent Ethan Laird suffered another injury blow for the under-23s on Friday.

Laird hobbled off with what appeared to be an ankle injury during the 2-0 win over Reading.

Its unclear how bad the injury was, but it was enough to force him off in the 35th minute and he looked in pain.

Photo by George Wood/Getty Images

Laird impressed last week in the under-21 EFL Trophy win over Rotherham, scoring the opener.

He was having another good game for the under-23s prior to his injury.

Last season he missed a few months of action with an injury and was looking to make up for lost time.

He told United’s website after the Rotherham win: “This season is definitely my comeback season. I’m looking for great things this season.”

His injury on Friday was then poorly timed, for a player who could end up playing in any of the positions in defence.

Photo by Manchester United/Man Utd via Getty Images

Laird, 18, is primarily a right-back, but is capable of featuring at left-back or even centre-back.

That versatility could be useful considering the recent signing of Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

The injury did not look like one which will cost him months, but it could put him out for a few weeks.

The best case scenario is that it was just an impact injury and United were being precautions, but it wasn’t good to see.

D’Mani Mellor and James Garner scored United’s goals in the 2-0 win.