Manchester United’s options are thin heading into the weekend game against Chelsea.
Harry Maguire has been suspended for an additional game after his show of dissent towards the officials following his sending off against Bournemouth.
This presents Manchester United boss Michael Carrick with a dilemma. Lisandro Martinez (suspension) and Matthijs de Ligt (injury) are also unavailable.
While it seems straightforward that Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven will start together at the back, almost by default, United need to find some cover.
The fixture schedule at first team and academy level makes this tricky.
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Harry Maguire has been given an extra game ban vs Chelsea due to misconduct – Let us know your thoughts….
With Martinez suspended too, it means Yoro and Heaven are expected to start…
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FA Youth Cup tie makes cover complicated
The easy solution in terms of cover could be for Michael Carrick to call up one of Manchester United’s defenders from the academy.
However, the timing of the FA Youth Cup fixture at Old Trafford on Friday night makes this complicated.
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Godwill Kukonki, Dan Armer and Albert Mills are all expected to be involved for Darren Fletcher’s side for the FA Youth Cup semi-final against Crystal Palace.
Kukonki has previously been part of matchday squads, while Armer has been compared to a young Harry Maguire in terms of stature and playing style.
A rare chance to be involved with the first team is a dream scenario for any of these players.
But the appeal of the FA Youth Cup could be just as tempting, especially as they are all expected to play.
With the first team they would be required to travel as emergency cover, likely just warming the bench.
A tricky decision awaits. The first team will take priority, but Darren Fletcher won’t want the team’s chances to win the FA Youth Cup to be harmed either.
What are your thoughts on Alejandro Garnacho ahead of United facing Chelsea at Stamford Bridge?
Will he even get off the bench this time?
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Sonny Aljofree could be called on
Under-21 centre-back Sonny Aljofree could be the most likely player to be drafted in as extra cover.
Aljofree, 21, has first team experience with loans at Notts County earlier this season and Accrington Stanley last season, where he made a combined 38 appearances.
Tyler Fredricson recently dropped out of the Premier League International Cup game against Real Madrid with injury.
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