United View: Reds' injury woes continue

Manchester United’s unbeaten start under Michael Carrick came to an end against Newcastle last week, losing 2-1 courtesy of a late strike from William Osula. 

Performances have dropped since the opening two wins, and the team will need players to return from injury to rectify it.

St James’ Park has been a difficult away fixture for the Reds in recent years. 

Eddie Howe’s side were fired up despite their own league struggles, and their disdain for United proved a clear motivator throughout the match.

Despite going down to ten men, Newcastle still looked like a cohesive outfit, and the Reds were unable to take advantage of being a man up. 

Although it should have been a greater advantage, as Dan Burn and Joelinton were both fortunate to stay on the pitch.

United had opportunities but couldn’t pin their opponents back. 

And the home side still had the threat of speed in their attack, which was utilised when Osula cruised past Tyrell Malacia to net the winner late on.

Malacia came on in place of Noussair Mazraoui, with Luke Shaw also being replaced earlier in the game. 

A lack of game time and injuries made it difficult for the Dutch international, this was only had his second appearance of the season.

United have found it difficult on their left side in recent weeks. 

Patrick Dorgu, who was having his best period in a United shirt under Carrick, provided width and speed, stretching opposition defences on the left wing.

Matheus Cunha has been isolated on the left, with Luke Shaw not providing the overlapping runs he was once routinely capable of. 

And the Brazilian often has to do it on his own if he is to create an opportunity.

Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez’s absence has hindered United’s buildup. 

The Argentinian is arguably one of the best line-breaking centre-backs in the world, picking out passes to the midfield or forwards with ease.

Leny Yoro has come in, and while the 20-year-old has all the tools to reach the top level one day, he lacks the build-up skills of Martinez. 

That said, he is a far superior defender at preventing counterattacks.

With two games before the final international break of the season, the Reds will have time to get both back fit for the final run-in. 

Having a full squad will give them the best opportunity of playing European football next season.

Dorgu was expected to be out for 8-10 weeks following the Arsenal match on 25th January, so if that report is to be believed, he should be back around the end of March, hopefully in line with the international break.

Mason Mount and Lisandro Martinez are both targeting a return to the matchday squad after failing to do so for the match against Newcastle. 

Mazraoui is also expected to be available after picking up a knock in that match.

United’s recruitment team took a gamble by not bringing in any reinforcements in January, and the final nine games will show if that risk will yield any rewards.