Team News: Manchester United star Cristiano Ronaldo doubtful for West Ham clash
According to the club’s official website, Manchester United have given an insight into the latest team news for the match against West Ham United in the Premier League, with Cristiano Ronaldo among those who could be sidelined. Both sides would be looking to get all three points to boost their chances of a top-four finish this season.
Ronaldo suffered a neck injury during the 3-1 win against Brentford in the previous fixture and is doubtful to be involved against West Ham. He underwent two to three hours of treatment yesterday, and his involvement will depend on the latest development from today.
Victor Lindelof will miss the match after his family suffered an unfortunate break-in in their house, whereas Jadon Sancho could be out of contention following a funeral within close relations. Edinson Cavani’s involvement would be made clear only after the latest training session that will happen today.
Aaron Wan-Bissaka is out on the sidelines with an illness while Jesse Lingard has returned to the fray. Ralf Rangnick is confident that Scott McTominay will return to be in contention to gain a spot in the matchday squad. Paul Pogba is a long term absentee, while Luke Shaw and Eric Bailly are still in the recovery phase.
Some big concerns
It is understandable why Lindelof and Sancho are being given some time off, and our thoughts are with them in this current scenario. The backline situation is concerning with Bailly, Shaw and Wan-Bissaka among the mix of players who could sit out later today.
There are no backup options in fullback areas, while the centre-back position is down to its bare bones, with Phil Jones probably being the only available substitute. Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane would start in the most likely scenario, whereas Alex Telles and Diogo Dalot will surely get the nod in their respective roles if Shaw and Wan-Bissaka are out of contention.
Cristiano and Cavani surely create more concerns with their potential unavailability, but we would hope to see at least one of them in contention to give us more options up front. After all, the impact they bring to the team cannot be overlooked, even if the centre-forward duo has had it tough in certain phases this season.
The return of Lingard and McTominay would be another boost since their lack of availability could have put us in a precarious situation. Pogba will still be missed, so we may see Donny van de Beek get more minutes if Rangnick decides to go down that route.
More Manchester United News
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Three points against the Hammers is just what we need at this stage to spring us to life after a series of stop-start performances. While David Moyes’ team has endured their own struggles, we cannot afford to be complacent despite their recent fall in form.
As for our injury concerns, that is the reason why top teams have big squads. Our bench isn’t too shabby and the options available in place of those that may sit out vs West Ham are pretty good. It is now down to Rangnick to select a strong team and instruct his players to play out a masterful display. These games, after all, are crucial for any team if they want to make UCL spots this season.
