Erik ten Hag will lead his Manchester United squad to London on Saturday, aiming to conclude a successful week with an additional three points, and he has received an early advantage.
United triumphed 3-0 against Southampton in their most recent Premier League fixture before decisively defeating Barnsley 7-0 in the Carabao Cup. Challenges may intensify against Crystal Palace, particularly following Oliver Glasner’s team’s 4-0 defeat over Ten Hag’s squad in May.
The midweek triumph offered a morale enhancement, whilst granting some first-team players a deserved respite. United have also been without several senior players at the season’s outset, although this situation is starting to improve.
The newest photographs from United training had notable highlights, particularly the return of two prominent figures. Mirror Football saw the following from the most recent photographs.
1. Hojlund reenters consideration
Rasmus Hojlund was sidelined at the commencement of his inaugural season at Manchester United due to a back ailment, and a hamstring issue has rendered him inactive this season. The striker had an injury during pre-season, as did new teammate Leny Yoro, and Hojlund is the first of the two to recover.
Hojlund concluded his inaugural season with 10 league goals, two of which were scored in the final two matches of the season. He encountered difficulties in Euro 2024, failing to score in any of Denmark’s four matches.
The £72 million attacker has assumed the number nine jersey this season, while Anthony Martial is now in Athens. He will undoubtedly be eager to demonstrate his capability to give it justice.
2. Accumulate all smiles
Who should be the starting player for Manchester United in the match versus Crystal Palace? Please inform us in the comments section.Mason Mount, similar to Hojlund, has been incapacitated due to hamstring issues. He has seen a more rapid return, having missed only two league matches.
The ex-Chelsea player was observed smiling during training as he aims to demonstrate his readiness to contribute at Selhurst Park. He experienced a forgettable day in the same match last season, but appeared in improved condition at the beginning of the current campaign before succumbing to injury.
“I firmly believe this represents a new beginning, and I find myself in an advantageous position currently; thus, I eagerly anticipate stepping onto the pitch to perform to the best of my abilities,” Mount stated in July. I eagerly anticipate it. I feel robust and physically fit, therefore we shall continue our efforts diligently.
The new beginning was temporarily interrupted by another injury. A prompt return will enable him to resume from his previous position.
Mainoo is rested and prepared.Some of United’s peripheral players received essential playing time against Barnsley, while others were granted a respite. Joshua Zirkzee and Bruno Fernandes both participated as substitutes, while Mainoo was afforded a whole day of rest.
The England international participated in the whole 90 minutes of three out of his club’s initial four league matches and contributed 77 minutes for the Three Lions against Ireland in the UEFA Nations League. At the age of 19, one could perceive that it is unnecessary to excessively burden the young individual.
Mainoo’s absence in the match against Barnsley has delayed supporters’ anticipation for his inaugural outing alongside new acquisition Manuel Ugarte. The Uruguayan’s participation for almost an hour midweek suggests that his wait may conclude on Saturday.
Wheatley remains relevant.Ethan Wheatley remained on the bench on Tuesday, but he is not as advanced in his United career as his fellow adolescent Mainoo. The 18-year-old was also a substitute for the matches against Liverpool and Southampton, but has not yet participated in any senior minutes this season.
Wheatley debuted in the Premier League against Sheffield United last season and also participated for 10 minutes in the away defeat against Crystal Palace. Following his inaugural Premier League 2 goal in the season’s opening match, he is seeking further first-team opportunities.
The attacker participated in first-team training with young defender Harry Amass, another individual poised for a senior opportunity. Ten Hag has relied on youngsters during his tenure at Old Trafford, however it is uncertain if this weekend’s match will be premature.
5. Ten Hag’s forward predicamentMarcus Rashford was afforded the opportunity to spearhead the attack midweek following his return to scoring form the previous weekend. He capitalized on his opportunity by scoring two goals against Barnsley.
With Hojlund reinstated and Joshua Zirkzee still in consideration, Ten Hag faces a decision. Will he position United’s number 10 centrally in what is likely to be a far more challenging match, or will he shift Rashford to the flanks and relegate Alejandro Garnacho to the bench, despite the Argentine having scored twice in the last week?
Ten Hag was observed conversing with coach and former attacker Ruud van Nistelrooy during practice. Could he have been conversing about that selection difficulty with his compatriot?
