Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim revealed the latest from the treatment table ahead of Sunday’s big Derby against Manchester City.
The Red Devils currently lie 13th in the Premier League table, and their hopes of reaching the European spots have long evaporated. Their latest defeat to Nottingham Forest only came to confirm what had already been deduced.
Nonetheless, their supporters will still expect them to put up a fight against Pep Guardiola’s men, if even for mere pride.
United have already stunned the Cityzens once this season, pulling off a sensational late comeback courtesy of Amad Diallo.
The young Ivorian is making important strides on this recovery path, but he’s not expected to return to the pitch before May.
On the contrary, another young Man Utd star could make a timely comeback, as Kobbie Mainoo might be given the all clear after almost two months on the sidelines.
“I think Kobbie is returning to training, so we will assess [him] ahead of the game. He cannot play a full game,” said Amorim in his pre-match press conference (via The Mirror).
The 19-year-old is still trying to find his best role under the Portuguese manager, but regardless of his position, his presence would be a timely boost for the squad’s depth.
Ruben Amorim Issues Updates on Mainoo, Mount & De Ligt
Moreover, Mason Mount, who made his return to action against Forest through a 12-minute cameo, is now fit enough to play a starting role.
“Yes, [Mount] is fit enough to start, but we must manage him,” explained Amorim. “Mason has trained a lot of times, getting the load in his body. Sometimes the mind is more important than the body. He is fit to play and we will see on Sunday.
But on the other hand, the Man Utd boss suggested Matthijs de Ligt could be ruled out with an injury. The Dutchman was seen limping after the last contest. “I think Matthijs [De Ligt] has an issue,” admitted Amorim.
Therefore, it remains to be seen how United would cope without their ‘impressive defender at the back. Leny Yoro and Harry Maguire have recently returned to action, but Ayden Heaven remains out, while Lisandro Martinez is a long-term absentee.
