Man Utd receive big injury boost one day before Community Shield game - report
Manchester United have received a huge injury boost ahead of their crucial FA Community Shield game against Manchester City tomorrow.
According to Samuel Luckhurst, Harry Maguire has travelled with United to London for the highly anticipated opening game of the season.
Joshua Zirkzee, Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot, Lisandro Martinez, Alejandro Garnacho and Kobbie Mainoo missed the pre-season tour to the US, but are also included in the squad.
It is a positive development for United fans after Erik ten Hag indicated Maguire’s unavailability for the game.
With Raphael Varane having departed and Leny Yoro sidelined due to injury, Maguire’s role has become increasingly pivotal.
The England international is expected to partner with Lisandro Martinez in central defence, provided he overcomes his fitness concerns.
Ten Hag confirmed in his pre-match press conference yesterday that Maguire and Victor Lindelof are doubtful for tomorrow’s fixture.
That instilled fear as only Martinez and Jonny Evans were left as options for the centre-back berths.
Pep Guardiola’s side play like a well-oiled machine and they would be eager to avenge the FA Cup defeat.
Maguire is a better defender than Evans in counteracting Erling Haaland’s formidable threat.
It could be the case that the former Leicester City ace is taken off in the second half for precautionary measures. The 36-year-old Evans could be summoned to replace him.
However, the problems do not seem to end for the United manager here. He faces a major decision over the left-back spot.
Luke Shaw is doubtful and Tyrell Malacia is still out injured. The 17-year-old Harry Amass could make his senior team bow for the club.
Rasmus Hojlund is sidelined due to a hamstring injury and Jadon Sancho is in line to replace him up front.