Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag is optimistic about a crucial injury boost ahead of their upcoming Premier League match against West Ham United on Sunday. Key defender Jonny Evans, who was sidelined against Fenerbahce after sustaining a knock in last weekend’s clash with Brentford, could make a return to the squad. Ten Hag also confirmed that captain Bruno Fernandes, suspended for the Fenerbahce game, will be available.
In his press conference, Ten Hag shared, “We’re staying overnight [in Turkey] and then heading straight to London for Saturday training. We expect Bruno back and, hopefully, Jonny Evans as well.”
However, there’s a setback as winger Antony picked up an injury during the Fenerbahce game, leaving him in a protective boot, potentially sidelining him for an extended period.
Man United continues to battle significant injury issues, with Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Mason Mount, Harry Maguire, Kobbie Mainoo, and Toby Collyer all out of action for the West Ham showdown. Ten Hag expressed his frustration, highlighting that these fitness struggles hinder the team’s consistency and position in the league standings.
“When we’re missing players, it’s hard to field the best team, and it affects our performance. We need everyone working together to have more players available because we’ve shown that when we’re at full strength, we’re a difficult team to beat,” Ten Hag explained.
Fernandes is certain to be in the lineup against West Ham, and Rasmus Hojlund is expected to play in the attacking third. Casemiro and Evans, if fit, are also likely to return. With Lisandro Martinez operating as a left-back recently, Ten Hag may stick with this setup, while Manuel Ugarte’s impressive performance in Turkey could earn him another start in midfield.
Erik ten Hag is indeed navigating a tricky period with Manchester United’s injury woes. The potential return of Jonny Evans and Bruno Fernandes is a significant boost as they prepare to face West Ham United. Evans has been an anchor at the back, especially with the ongoing injuries to Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, and newcomer Leny Yoro. Fernandes, having served his suspension, will bring much-needed leadership and creativity to the lineup.
The possible long-term loss of Antony due to his injury is another blow to United’s already depleted wing options, making it likely that Ten Hag will lean heavily on players like Alejandro Garnacho or Facundo Pellistri, should he remain at the club. With Casemiro’s experience likely strengthening the midfield, and Hojlund’s increasing consistency upfront, United could maintain a formidable structure.
The reshuffled defense, with Lisandro Martinez as left-back and possibly Evans returning to the center, alongside the positive impact of Manuel Ugarte in midfield, could offer a balanced approach against West Ham’s attack. However, Ten Hag’s frustrations are understandable, as the frequent injuries have prevented him from establishing a consistent lineup—a factor that could impact United’s rhythm and consistency this season.
