With so many injuries, Manchester United is essentially a mash unit right now. There’s a current injury crisis in midfield, and an even larger crisis in the back line, it’s to the point that Red Devils boss Jose Mourinho said he might have to suit up Sunday versus Swansea City.
He was joking of course.
“We don’t have (any other players),” Mourinho said at his pre Swansea City press session (video available here at this link)
“We have Herrera and Carrick and nothing else. And Tim Fosu-Mensah, an emergency to help the team, strong legs, energy; he’s another one that we will miss so we are in trouble but we will fight, that’s for sure.”
“In this moment Eric Bailly is the only option we have (for center-half). It’s Axel, Eric and Daley. I think Eric and Daley, they played again absolutely amazingly (in the goalless draw at Manchester City).
“I have to speak with them and see how they are, see how they feel. I’m also training hard in the gym so I can also be an option — Mourinho and (Axel) Tuanzebe against Swansea!”
Mourinho added that Wayne Rooney may be an option for midfield, and that Paul Pogba won’t be returning until the UEFA Europa League semifinal against Celta Vigo.
Later he also promised some summer transfer window signings, so he’s re-assuring fans that reinforcements are on the way.
In further elaboration on the injury situation, Juan Mata said earlier this week that he believes he will play again this season. However, Mourinho insists that the team needs a healthy center back even more.
Odds via Sky Bet:
United- 2/5, Draw- 7/2, Swansea City 7/1
Prediction: United 1, Swansea City 0
Despite all the absentees, United were still able to muster up a point at City; in a match where they were dominated in terms of scoring opportunities. Versus 18th place Swansea City, I still see them managing to take all three points.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, partnered with FOX Sports Engage Network. and News Now. Banks, a former writer for the Washington Times, NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, currently contributes to WGN CLTV and KOZN.
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