Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim is set to welcome back Christian Eriksen (33), Manuel Ugarte (23), and Leny Yoro (19) for the upcoming Premier League clash against Everton on Saturday, which would significantly bolster his faltering squad.
When questioned during Friday’s press conference about whether this week has been more positive compared to the previous week, which was marred by injury setbacks, a cheerful Amorim replied: “Absolutely, because we are not losing players. We’re recovering players – Chris, Manu and Leny will be back.”
Amorim also took the opportunity to clarify his previous remarks regarding Eriksen’s absence during last Sunday’s narrow defeat at Tottenham Hotspur.
The Portuguese coach explained that Eriksen, who had previously suffered a cardiac arrest during a Euro 2020 match, must be handled cautiously: “Chris has a heart condition, and we must be extremely careful with that – it’s not about the heart. I’m simply stating that his heart rate needs to be monitored due to a fever.”
Eriksen later posted on Instagram, confirming he was only dealing with a virus.
“There was a misunderstanding regarding Chris,” Amorim clarified on Friday. “I want to emphasise this because Chris is healthy and prepared to perform at a high level for years to come.”
“It’s just my limitations in articulating the injury situations. I want to be very clear on this.”
Saturday’s encounter at Goodison Park is crucial for both teams positioned in the middle of the table, with United currently sitting 15th, 12 points clear of the relegation zone and just one point below 14th-placed Everton.
Regarding other injured players, Amorim expressed uncertainty about their return dates, including Amad Diallo, who is likely out for the remainder of the season due to an ankle injury, as well as Toby Collyer, Kobbie Mainoo, Mason Mount, and Luke Shaw.
“It’s challenging to predict (the timelines for the other players),” he noted. “Amad will be sidelined for an extended period. I believe Mase (Mount) is continuing his recovery. Luke is making progress, but I don’t have an expected return date.”
“Toby appears to be the closest to a comeback, but not just yet. Kobbie is on the mend. We need to adapt and utilise the players available for the upcoming fixtures.”
Amorim also updated reporters shortly after Friday’s Europa League draw, which pitted them against Real Sociedad in the last 16. However, he stressed that his primary focus remains on the Premier League.
“My sole aim is to claim victory against Everton,” he remarked. “We find ourselves in a challenging position in the Premier League, with numerous issues to address in each game.”
“If I focus too much on our overall performances, or start thinking about Real Sociedad and potential trophies, that wouldn’t be the right approach for my role. My priority is solely to win against Everton.”
Compiled by SportArena.com.au.
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