Manchester United have provided an injury update on Christian Eriksen ahead of the club’s Carabao Cup semi-final second leg against Nottingham Forest.
United’s number 14 was replaced by Fred just before the hour mark during the 3-0 win against Reading at Old Trafford on Friday, in the FA Cup fourth-round.
The former Brentford midfielder was scythed down by Royals striker Andy Carroll and after sustaining an ankle injury, Eriksen was pictured leaving the Theatre of Dreams on crutches.
With the 30-year-old visibly distressed following the hefty challenge from the former Newcastle United and Liverpool striker, Ten Hag and Manchester United fans have been anxiously waiting to hear the severity of the Dane’s injury.
Manchester United provide Christian Eriksen injury update
The club state that the 120-time Denmark international “is expected to be out of action for an extended period”.
The update added: “While investigations are continuing, initial assessments indicate that Eriksen is likely to be out until late April or early May.
“However, there is hope that Christian can return in time to play a role in the final stages of the campaign.”
From 31 appearances for United, Eriksen has scored two goals and provided nine assists. The former Bees midfielder leads the way in the club’s assist charts.
Speaking at his press conference, Ten Hag said: “Of course, he is disappointed about it, we are disappointed about it. It happens in top football, you have to deal with it.”
With Donny van de Beek out for the season, Ten Hag will likely be asked questions in his press conference whether the severity of Eriksen’s injury will have an impact on whether United try and attempt to sign a midfielder before the January transfer window closes tonight.