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Manchester United thrashed Everton 4-0 on Sunday as Ruben Amorim claimed his first Premier League win at Old Trafford since taking charge.
Joshua Zirczy and Marcus Rashford were linked with a January exit after a poor start to the season and each grabbed a brace as the Red Devils showed intensity on the pitch, which will delight the Portuguese.
The team has not lost a game since the sacking of Erik Ten Hag and has enjoyed back-to-back wins under the new manager and is gathering strength ahead of a crucial game against Arsenal in midweek.
Despite the impressive win, Amorim will have a sleepless night ahead of Wednesday’s game. They are without two influential stars, with the club captain’s availability still remaining a big question mark.
Lisandro, Mainu out
Lisandro Martinez once again started on the left side of defense but will miss the game against the Gunners after picking up his fifth yellow card of the campaign.
Amorim has avoided putting too much pressure on the injury-prone Luke Shaw of late, but the England international will need to step up at the Emirates as he is likely to start in the absence of another left-footed centre-back. .
Kobbie Mainoo, who made his long-awaited return from injury against the Toffees, also picked up his fifth yellow card of the season on Sunday and will miss the game.
Bruno Fernandes’ ankle is stuck in ice. 😬🧊 pic.twitter.com/8UhyaqVkub
— Football Extra™ (@FootballXtra0) December 1, 2024
The academy graduate was unlikely to start against Mikel Arteta’s side anyway given his fitness, but he will now not be included in the matchday squad.
The former Sporting Lisbon manager was not afraid to rotate his squad for each match as Manuel Ugarte is likely to feature from the start against the north London side. It will be interesting to see who his partner will be on Wednesday.
Bruno is suspicious.
In further bad news, Bruno Fernandes, who had two assists against Everton, was sent off after 65 minutes but was seen with an ankle injury while sitting in the dugout.
This could mean a knock and Amorim will be praying for their captain to play. The Portugal international has certainly found his form in recent weeks and has scored seven goals in as many games.
Amorim will need all the help he can get if the club is to pull off a famous win in London, where Arsenal sit second. That puts them six points ahead of the 20-time English league champions.
A win could truly kick-start Amorim’s reign and, despite the absentees, such is the confidence among supporters that fans will be eager to see what their manager will cook up for a tasty encounter.
Featured Image Gareth Copley via Getty Images
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