Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has provided an update on six first-team stars ahead of the Premier League clash against West Ham United on Sunday afternoon.
The Red Devils returned to winning ways in the league with a 4-3 victory over Wolverhampton Wanderers on the road. They will be aiming for another three points against the Hammers.
Speaking in his pre-match press conference, Ten Hag revealed that Sofyan Amrabat will return to team training on Saturday after returning from Africa Cup of Nations duty with Morocco.
The Dutch tactician added that Tyrell Malacia and Mason Mount are not expected to return versus West Ham, but Victor Lindelof and Aaron Wan-Bissaka could be involved at the weekend.
He told Manutd.com: “Sofyan will return on Saturday in the training. Ty [Tyrell Malacia] and Mason Mount, I don’t expect them back, but Victor Lindelof, I think he is on his way back. He trained with the team on Wednesday and we have to see how far he is [along].”
“Aaron Wan-Bissaka is also on the way back. He could be available but I don’t think he will make it for Sunday. But I’m not sure at this moment. There is a problem in his leg.”
Meanwhile, the manager admitted that Lisandro Martinez’s substitution was only precautionary as he has just returned to first-team action after a long-term injury lay-off.
He added: “It was a precaution. I took him off because, actually I had to sub Rasmus [Hojlund] because he was dead with all his running! But then we needed an extra header but, also for Licha, I think he is a long way out. We brought Harry on for [an] extra header and Omari Forson for Rasmus.”
United need to go on a long winning streak
The Red Devils could have easily scored four or more goals in the opening half at the Molineux Stadium, but there was a lack of cutting edge which nearly cost them.
Kobbie Mainoo’s sensational late winner secured three points against Wolves, but Ten Hag will want a more commanding performance at Old Trafford on Sunday.
The Dutchman said that yesterday’s line-up was his strongest for the campaign, but there was evident concern over the lack of control between defence and midfield.
That needs to be sorted sooner rather than later if United want to make the top four. The club are currently eight points behind the final Champions League position.
They have the chance to reduce the deficit by beating the Hammers, suppose Tottenham Hotspur drop points against Everton in tomorrow’s early kick-off at Goodison Park.
