Manchester United outcast Kobbie Mainoo could be handed his first Premier league start of the season after recent interview from Ruben Amorin.
As Manchester United gear up for their Boxing Day game against Newcastle, Ruben Amorin would need to address one of the most important questions: who would replace Bruno Fernandes against the Magpies and in the other games ahead until the captain returns to full fitness.
Bruno was seen holding his leg after a crunching tackle from Aston Villa's Amadou Onana during the first half, as coach Amorin took the Portuguese star out of the game during the break and brought in Lisandro Martinez, a centre back, to replace his most important midfielder.
Fernandes will likely be out for almost a month. He could miss at least five games but may return in time to lead his team in the Manchester derby on January 17.
Given Bruno's injury, his understudy Kobbie Mainoo—identified by manager Amorin—should have replaced him in upcoming games and should have come on for Fernandes. However, Mainoo was also sidelined with a calf injury suffered during training.
According to Amorin (via: United in Focus), there could be some good news for Mainoo as he talked about the youngster's injury update, saying, "Not for this game(Newcastle). They are recovering, and it won’t take long. Mainoo will return faster than Bruno."
Kobbie Mainoo could be handed his first Premier league start this season
If all goes as planned, Mainoo could have the chance to prove himself to his manager. Should Fernandes remain unavailable, and Mainoo's recovery continues to progress well, he may make his first Premier League start of the season.
Amorin has now called on two of his veterans, Martinez and Luke Shaw, to step up in Manchester United's upcoming games. He said, "This is a great opportunity for players like Licha [Martinez] and Luke Shaw. All of them need to step up and help provide more leadership within the group."
On the other hand, Casemiro will be available for selection after serving a one-game suspension against Villa. Meanwhile, Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt continue their recovery in Carrington as the Reds prepare for their Boxing Day fixture.
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