- Man Utd could see Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans return, potentially boosting their defense for the upcoming clash with Chelsea
- Manager Erik ten Hag remains optimistic about Varane and Evans’ fitness, addressing concerns over injuries plaguing the team’s defensive lineup
Manchester United may receive a much-needed defensive boost as Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans eye return to bolster the injury-ridden Red Devils ahead of their clash with Chelsea on Thursday.
Injuries have haunted United throughout an arduous second season under Dutch manager Erik ten Hag, contributing to their Premier League struggles and early European exit.
A lackluster 1-1 draw with Brentford exacerbated their woes, with Sweden’s Victor Lindelof sustaining a hamstring injury likely to sideline him for a month. This left United languishing in sixth place, nine points behind fifth-placed Tottenham.
Further compounding their defensive woes, Lisandro Martinez picked up a calf problem in training, while Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain sidelined.
Despite the setbacks, Ten Hag expressed optimism about Varane and Evans’ fitness for the upcoming Stamford Bridge clash.
“We’re hopeful for Thursday’s match,” Ten Hag stated in a pre-match press conference on Wednesday. “Raphael Varane and Jonny Evans are back in training this afternoon, and Harry Maguire resumed training yesterday.”
When pressed on United’s spate of muscle-related injuries this season, Ten Hag remained tight-lipped, citing internal investigations.
“We’re aware of the issue and are addressing it internally,” he commented. “The intensity of the Premier League, coupled with the demanding schedule and international commitments, poses challenges for all teams, not just us.”
As United brace for the Chelsea showdown, Ten Hag emphasized the availability of players in midfield and attack, underscoring the significance of defensive reinforcements for the encounter.