Mazraoui, Shaw, De Ligt – Latest Man United injury news and return dates
Manchester United will now enjoy a 10-day break before their next Premier League game against Aston Villa following Wednesday’s defeat to Newcastle United
Manchester United suffered their first defeat under Michael Carrick on Wednesday night as Newcastle United beat them 2-1 at St James’ Park. William Osula’s injury-time winner handed Eddie Howe’s 10-men all three points after Jacob Ramsey was sent off.
The defeat leaves the race for Champions League football wide open with Chelsea picking up an emphatic 4-1 victory at Aston Villa. Fortunately for Michael Carrick’s men, they will get over a week to recover and prepare for their next league clash against Villa.
It comes at the perfect time for United, with a number of players suffering with injuries. At Newcastle, Noussair Mazraoui was forced off and replaced by Tyrell Malacia late on. Matthijs de Ligt, Mason Mount and Lisandro Martinez all missed the defeat.
With all of that being said, the Manchester Evening News has taken a look at the latest updates on United’s injured stars and when they could return.
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Noussair Mazraoui
Since returning from AFCON, Mazraoui came off the bench in three straight games before starting the previous two. After playing 66 minutes against Palace, he lasted 85 minutes at Newcastle.
However, as the United players left the stadium late on Wednesday night, the Moroccan international was spotted walking with a small limp and looking uncomfortable.
Possible return date: Aston Villa (H) –Sunday, March 15.
Luke Shaw
Shaw came off in the first half against Crystal Palace last weekend with what appeared to be a foot issue. He started the Newcastle defeat, but was replaced on the hour by Manuel Ugarte.
Possible return date: Returned
Lisandro Martinez
Martinez has been absent for United’s last three games with a calf issue. He wasn’t in the squad at Newcastle, with Under-21s defender Godwill Kukonki named on the bench as defensive cover.
What Carrick has said: “Licha, it was a small issue, so he’s getting closer. He won’t be out for very long so we’ll just monitor him over the next day, two, three or four days and see when he can come back, but he’s he’s not far away.”
Possible return date: Aston Villa (H) – Sunday, March 15.
Mason Mount
Mount has not played for United since Carrick’s first game in charge against Manchester City. He was in the squad in the 3-2 win over Arsenal, but was left on the bench.
There is hope that he could return for the game against Aston Villa next weekend.
What Carrick has said: “Mason is getting closer, really. He’s on the grass, and he’s getting closer. He’s looking to train and be in around it pretty soon. He’s just had to be patient… He’s a big player, so we’re looking after him, making sure he’s ready for a big finish to the season.”
Possible return date: Aston Villa (H) – Sunday, March 15.
Matthijs de Ligt
De Ligt has been out with a back injury for the last three months. However, the latest update on the defender suggests that he is getting closer to a return.
What Carrick has said: “Matthijs, he’s had a back issue, which has been a little bit slower to progress, really. It’s something we’ve been working through, and he’s getting there.
“He’s in the right direction, but as I said, he’s just a little bit further behind. It’s a difficult one to pin down, especially time-wise. He’s definitely improving, so that’s a good thing.”
Possible return date: Leeds United (H) – April 13
Patrick Dorgu
Dorgu suffered a hamstring injury in the 3-2 win over Arsenal and Carrick confirmed he would miss a considerable period back in late January.
What Carrick has said: “Pat, unfortunately, he’s going to be out for a period of time. We’re still working through how long that’s going to be. We weren’t sure whether it was a little bit of cramp or whether it was something a little bit more serious, and at the moment, it looks a little bit more on the serious note.”
Possible return date: Late March