While it has been a rough season so far for Manchester United and their fan base, excitement is brewing as this international break comes to an end. The enthusiasm stems from the fact that the top two left backs, Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia, are coming back into the team.
According to widespread reports today, both could return to training this week, ahead of the clash at Everton this weekend.
ESPN FC claim that Shaw and Malacia are both “nearing comebacks” and could even be passed fit to play in the next game.
Manchester United at Everton FC FYIs
Kick: Sun. Nov. 26, 4:30pm, Goodison Park, Liverpool UK
Transatlantic Passage: How the Premier League Redefined Soccer in America: LINK
Premier League Form, Standing: United WWLWW, 6th, 21 pts Everton WDWLW 14th, 14 pts
Of course it is not likely that either player will start, as they are both of coming off long injury layoffs. Shaw has been out since week three, back in August while Malacia has not featured at this season.
No doubt that both guys will be eased back into the mix slowly, perhaps just making a cameo of the bench in this game. And it has been suggested that Shaw could actually slot in at left center back, instead of his usual LB position.
And it will be interesting to see what happens with Sergio Reguilon, the panic buy loan signing on deadline day, who was brought over from Tottenham Hotspur to provide cover during the injury crisis.
Paul M. Banks is the owner/manager of The Sports Bank. He’s also the author of “Transatlantic Passage: How the English Premier League Redefined Soccer in America,” and “No, I Can’t Get You Free Tickets: Lessons Learned From a Life in the Sports Media Industry.”
He’s written for numerous publications, including the New York Daily News, Sports Illustrated and the Chicago Tribune. He regularly appears on NTD News and WGN News Now, while writing for the International Baseball Writers Association of America. You can follow the website on Twitter.