Manchester United enters a crucial Premier League match against Fulham this Sunday at Old Trafford, but the team faces significant challenges due to injuries. Interim head coach Michael Carrick has led the team to two impressive victories, including a 2-0 win over Manchester City and a thrilling 3-2 victory against Arsenal. However, key player absences may impact the squad’s performance against the Cottagers.
The latest injury news has been concerning for Carrick. Patrick Dorgu, who has shown promising form, is expected to be sidelined for an extended period after sustaining an injury during the match against Arsenal. In a press conference on Wednesday, Carrick stated, “Pat unfortunately is going to be out for a period of time. We will have to wait and see” regarding the recovery timeline. The coach expressed disappointment over Dorgu’s condition, noting that the situation looks more serious than initially thought. Dorgu’s potential return is projected for late February.
In contrast, Joshua Zirkzee has returned to training and may be available for selection against Fulham. Carrick shared positive news, saying, “Josh is back training this week, which is good news.” Zirkzee has been absent for a brief period, but his return is seen as a boost for the squad. It remains uncertain whether Carrick will rush him back into action or take a more cautious approach. His potential return date is set for February 1.
Meanwhile, Matthijs De Ligt continues to recover from a back injury sustained in November. The defender has encountered setbacks in his rehabilitation and has not yet resumed training. Carrick provided an update, indicating that De Ligt is still in the recovery process, emphasizing the need for patience as they work to bring him back into the fold.
As Manchester United prepares for this critical fixture, Carrick faces the challenge of managing a squad affected by injuries. With the team’s recent form boosting their confidence, the interim head coach will hope that the returning players can help maintain their momentum in the Premier League.
