Manchester United have picked up plenty of injury concerns around the international break, but there is one important positive that could work in the club’s favour: several key players now have valuable time to recover, rest and rebuild their fitness.
Matheus Cunha, Marcus Rashford, Kobbie Mainoo, Harry Maguire, Luke Shaw, Matthijs de Ligt and Carlos Baleba can all use this extended pause to get themselves physically ready for the demanding fixtures ahead. United’s own match report showed Shaw and Maguire involved against Fulham, while Mainoo was also part of the starting XI before being replaced late on. (Manchester United)
BALEBA’S REST COULD BE MASSIVE
Carlos Baleba staying in Manchester instead of travelling for international duty could prove extremely useful. The midfielder can focus completely on his recovery, training and conditioning without the added demands of international travel and extra minutes.
That could be exactly what United need from their new midfield powerhouse.
MAINOO GETTING A BREATHER
Kobbie Mainoo also withdrew from England duty during the break. Reports have indicated that this was related more to managing his workload than a major injury, giving him an opportunity to recover after a demanding start to the campaign. (Manchester United)
Mainoo has been one of United’s standout midfield performers, so having him return refreshed could be a major boost.
DE LIGT CLOSING IN ON A RETURN
Matthijs de Ligt is another name United fans will be watching closely. After a lengthy spell out, he has been working towards a return, with the Tottenham fixture being mentioned as a possible target. (The Standard)
A fit De Ligt would give Michael Carrick another experienced option at the heart of the defence.
TOTTENHAM AWAITS
United are scheduled to face Tottenham at Old Trafford on October 10, with both sides looking to restart their league campaigns strongly after the international pause. Tottenham are still searching for their first Premier League win of the season, making the fixture an important one for both teams. (Talksport)
The injuries have certainly complicated things for United, but this break also gives several important players something they desperately need: time.
No unnecessary rushing. No needless minutes. Just recovery, preparation and getting the squad back to full strength.
When United return, they need to be fresh, aggressive and ready to go from the first whistle.
