Michael Carrick has provided an update on his Manchester United team ahead of the Manchester derby, with journalists eager to find out when Matthijs de Ligt will return from injury.
It is straight into the deep end for Michael Carrick as Manchester United head coach, facing the task of beating Pep Guardiola’s Man City in his first game in charge.
Carrick will be aware that the mood at Old Trafford is low. Ruben Amorim was sacked as head coach last week after a run of poor results, and United were knocked out of the FA Cup in the days that followed.
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City go into the game needing a win to keep the pressure on Arsenal at the top of the Premier League table. Guardiola was complimentary of Carrick in his pre-match press conference, recalling the 44-year-old’s playing career, having come up against him in two Champions League finals.
With it being Carrick’s first game since returning to the club, United fans will be eager to see his first starting line-up.
Matthijs de Ligt arriving at Old Trafford
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Man Utd still without Matthijs de Ligt due to injury
Carrick will be eager to get Matthijs de Ligt back fit after the Netherlands international missed the last nine matches with a persistent lower back issue.
Despite De Ligt’s injury, United have an array of alternative options who can play at centre-back, including the experienced duo Lisandro Martinez and Harry Maguire.
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The newly appointed head coach can also call upon the in-form Ayden Heaven, who didn’t start in the FA Cup defeat suffered against Brighton at Old Trafford. He also has Leny Yoro among his defensive options.
Speaking to MUTV on Friday, Carrick revealed that De Ligt won’t be available for the derby, but there is hope the Dutchman will return to training soon.
“We’ve had a good week really,” Carrick said.
“Matthijs de Ligt has been carrying a bit of an issue but, hopefully, we’ll get him in some time soon.
“It’s been a little bit slower than what they thought previously.
“All in all, the boys are in good shape. I just feel the energy, whether it’s fresh or not! Obviously, I’m delighted to be here. I want to work a certain way, I want to enjoy what we do and work hard to get success. The boys have put the work in this week and we feel we’re ready.”
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In more positive news, United have welcomed Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo back into the squad after their countries were knocked out of the AFCON.
Meanwhile, Shea Lacey is suspended, following his red card against Brighton.
Matthijs de Ligt was in-form before injury setback
Carrick will be looking forward to getting De Ligt back fit because he was showing good form before his injury.
De Ligt was voted United’s Player of the Month for November, finishing above Bruno Fernandes and Amad in the official poll.
Hopefully, De Ligt can return in the same form and help United stop conceding goals every week.
The Dutchman’s experience will be missed on Saturday.
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