Manchester United walk into the most important game of their season against Lyon undermanned after suffering an injury setback but face an opportunity to script a beautiful narrative.
Ruben Amorim’s maiden Man Utd season hinges on the success of the Europa League, and Lyon at Old Trafford stands as the first test of potentially four games to history.
At such a time, he needs all the help he can get, which is why Joshua Zirkzee’s injury vs Newcastle was such a big setback.
Ahead of the game against Lyon, the Man Utd manager has suffered yet another injury setback, which means he might have to make some tough decisions.
Man Utd injury setback ahead of Lyon
The fallout from Man Utd’s loss to Newcastle was all concentrated on Zirkzee’s injury and what it means for this Europa League game.
However, United were also strengthened massively by a return, as Luke Shaw played some minutes, so did Mason Mount, and Ayden Heaven returned to the squad.
Therefore, it was a huge setback to see Man Utd train ahead of their Lyon tie and not see the latter of that trio in action.
Ruben Amorim confirmed that Ayden Heaven has suffered a small setback that will see him miss the Lyon games just days after returning to the squad vs Newcastle.
Heaven is one of the few left-footed centre-backs United have, although Luke Shaw’s return soothes that blow somewhat.
However, United also saw a boost in training and that player could play a crucial role between now and the end of the season.
Jonny Evans returns to Man Utd training
Jonny Evans hasn’t been seen much since he started Ruben Amorim’s first game, playing only scattered minutes here and there.
Evans is set to leave United in the summer, but this could be a way by the footballing gods to give the loyal United man a chance at destiny.
If Amorim wants to replace one left-footed centre-back with another, Evans could be an option as he and Shaw can play out the whole 90 between them.
That will allow Leny Yoro to play on his stronger right side, since Matthijs de Ligt is also injured, thereby bringing balance to the defence.
Perhaps Evans can pull out a final series of masterclasses in a United career that has continued to defy expectations!
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