Manchester United have received a welcome injury boost with the news that Ayden Heaven’s injury is not as serious as first feared.
The 18-year-old defender was forced off early in the second half of United’s 3-0 win over Leicester City last weekend after picking up what initially appeared to be a worrying knock.
Heaven left the King Power Stadium in a protective boot, sparking concerns of a long-term layoff. However, encouraging signs soon followed as the teenager was seen walking unaided, and he has since delivered a positive update on his recovery.
Taking to Instagram earlier this week, Heaven reassured fans by writing:
“Thank you guys for all the support! I have read all your messages, and I’m doing really well and recovering fast.”
Heaven To Return After International Break
According to sources close to the club, the Manchester Evening News understands that Heaven is now out of the protective boot and has a real chance of returning to training shortly after the international break.
With United not back in action until Tuesday, April 1, when they travel to face Nottingham Forest, the timing could allow the young centre-back to make a swift return to the squad.
Heaven has made four appearances for United since his January move from Arsenal, starting the last two matches against Real Sociedad and Leicester. He was signed for a compensation fee believed to be over £1 million, arriving with just one senior appearance for the Gunners under his belt.
Despite his limited top-flight experience, the teenager has made an immediate impression on manager Ruben Amorim and the coaching staff at Old Trafford.
Amorim Is A Big Fan Of The Teenager
The youngster’s emergence has come at a crucial time for United, who are currently dealing with a defensive injury crisis.
First-team regulars Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw, and Jonny Evans are all sidelined, leaving space for Heaven to step up—and he has done so with maturity and composure.
Speaking after the win over Leicester, Amorim praised Heaven’s temperament and development:
“*Yeah, he already did that [showed promise] against Arsenal and today, and against Real Sociedad.*
*“Today was for me the most difficult game for him, because he played so well against Real Sociedad, and we expect always for these young kids to relax a little bit. But he was so focused and he played quite well, so let’s hope for the best.*”
United currently sit 13th in the Premier League with nine games remaining and are preparing for a Europa League quarter-final showdown with French side Lyon next month.
With a trophy and a European spot still up for grabs, the potential return of Heaven to the fold could be vital as United look to finish the season on a high.