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Manchester United’s upcoming Premier League clash with Aston Villa could arrive at a difficult moment for Unai Emery’s side after a fresh injury concern emerged during their defeat to Chelsea.
Their 4-1 defeat has already dented Villa’s momentum in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification, and the situation could become even more complicated depending on the outcome of a medical assessment scheduled in the coming days.
United, meanwhile, head into the fixture in strong form under Michael Carrick.
During Carrick’s second interim spell in charge of Manchester United, the team have recorded six wins, one draw and a recent defeat at Newcastle United.
That run has lifted them into third place in the Premier League table, overtaking their next opponents Aston Villa on goal difference and strengthened their Champions League qualification hopes.
Despite their resurgence, United have also had to navigate injury issues of their own.
Centre-Back Matthijs de Ligt has been sidelined for some time with an uncertain return date, leaving the defence short of options.
Similarly, Patrick Dorgu has been unavailable in recent weeks, with the Denmark national football team manager indicating when the left-back could be expected to return.
Those absences have forced Carrick to rotate his defensive options – meaning developments at rival clubs could also play a role in the race for the top four/five.
After Villa’s defeat at Stamford Bridge, Birmingham Mail reported that Emery confirmed that one of his players had suffered a new injury concern during the match and would need further tests.
“We will check on him tomorrow. We will do a scan,” Emery said.
“Hopefully not a lot [of time out]. He had some doubts about his calf.”
The player in question was Matty Cash, who was forced off at half-time after experiencing discomfort.
Cash had recently returned to the starting lineup after previously missing matches against Brighton and Newcastle due to a knee problem.
He was replaced at the interval by Lamare Bogarde, who may now be required to start if the injury proves more serious.
With Aston Villa set to face Manchester United next weekend, the situation could prove significant not only for Emery’s defensive plans but for the wider Champions League race – where Carrick’s side are currently building momentum.
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