Manchester United appear to have Bruno Fernandes available for their mid-week Premier League clash against Arsenal.
Despite beating Sean Dyche’s Everton 4-0 on Sunday, following braces from Joshua Zirkzee and Marcus Rashford, the Red Devils’ afternoon was marred after their captain limped off with 25 minutes to play.
Replaced with Manuel Ugarte, Fernandes was seen sitting in the dugout with his left ankle heavily strapped before walking down the Old Trafford tunnel.
Now, just a day later, there is confirmation that Fernandes is fit and well – and should feature against the Gunners.
Bruno Fernandes injury update
Despite limping off against Everton, the Manchester United captain is set to be fit for Wednesday’s midweek clash.
Amorim confirmed in his most recent press conference that Fernandes is fine to feature. He said: “He is a guy who doesn’t need a lot of rest so he is prepared to play!”
Great news for Manchester United supporters. However, what is refreshing for the first time in a while is that Bruno could’ve been easily replaced. They have multiple options in Amorim’s new regime.
How Manchester United could have replaced Bruno Fernandes against Arsenal
Mason Mount to make third Premier League start
Mason Mount has failed to live up to expectations since his surprise transfer from Chelsea 18 months ago. Set back by injuries, the 25-year-old has managed just seven Premier League starts, including two this term.
However, currently injury-free and fit enough to make a 10-minute cameo against Everton, Mount could have been an option to come in as a like-for-like replacement for Fernandes on the right side of a two-man attacking midfield.
Marcus Rashford and Joshua Zirkzee as No. 10s
Talking of how Amorim likes to play with two number 10s, Sunday’s heroic duo, Rashford and Zirkzee, could have once again started, but this time, with the former dropping deeper and making room for Rasmus Hojlund.
The Denmark international was an unused substitute against Everton so will be chomping at the bit to start following his trio of direct goal contributions against Bodo/Glimt in the Europa League last week.
Unlikely Antony lifeline
Although the unlikeliest option, Antony’s availability could’ve allowed Amorim to experiment in Fernandes’ potential absence.
The out-of-form Brazilian has yet to kick on since his move from Ajax, but, like Amad, now flourishing in his new right wing-back role, could be next to benefit from a tweak in position.
Familiar with a right-sided attacking role, Antony could form part of a narrow three-man attack including Rashford and either Zirkzee or Hojlund.
from United In Focus https://ift.tt/GU2WbfJ