Fernandes, Højlund, Shaw: Manchester United injury update vs Southampton (Premier League)

Manchester United have received several injury updates as Erik ten Hag prepares to face Southampton in the Premier League on Saturday afternoon.

Manchester United have struggled at the start of the season, with only one win from their first three Premier League matches.

Their recent 3-0 loss to Liverpool followed a tight defeat against Brighton. While their win over Fulham showed some potential, Erik ten Hag’s team still needs significant improvements. The international break has been well-timed, allowing players to regain their fitness.

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This will be crucial as the team faces a busy period ahead, with two weekly matches once the season resumes. They will kick off this demanding schedule with a Saturday match against Southampton.

Throughout the international break, there were no real fears. However, once Portuga faced Scotland, some were worried that club captain Bruno Fernandes had picked up an injury as he was seen walking with discomfort off the field at the end of the tie.

However, in a post-match interview, the 30-year-old confirmed it was “just a little bump,” meaning he should be available as usual for the upcoming tie at St. Mary’s Stadium.

Further, fans will likely see Manuel Ugarte make his debut for the club on Saturday afternoon. However, Ten Hag confirmed that Rasmus Højlund and Luke Shaw are “progressing well” but are not ready to face Southampton.

“Rasmus Hojlund and Luke Shaw, they are progressing very well, but are not ready for this game,” Ten Hag said at his press conference on Thursday afternoon.

“Manuel Ugarte, I think we all have seen he played for Uruguay. He returned this afternoon, he was the only player who returned today. All the other players returned yesterday, so he is available for this game.”

Leny Yoro, Tyrell Malacia, and Mason Mount are not expected to be fit for the game, with the former two likely unavailable until November.

Southampton expect the return of attacking duo Ross Stewart and Kamaldeen Sulemana in the coming weeks. However, it is not confirmed whether they will be available when Russel Martin welcomes United to St Mary’s.

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