Manchester United have been handed a massive boost in their bids for a UEFA Champions League spot, with a crucial star set to miss the decisive fixture against the Reds.
Once upon a time, a UEFA Champions League spot looked like a far-fetched dream for Manchester United, although since the arrival of Michael Carrick, it is now more than a possibility.
At the time of Ruben Amorim’s departure, the Red Devils sat sixth in the Premier League with 31 points, with only four points separating themselves with 14th in the table.
The Reds now have 16 points from a possible 18 under Carrick, who seems to be getting the best out of United’s new striker, Benjamin Šeško, who has scored in three of his last four games.
United’s recent resurgence has helped to massively boost the mood surrounding Old Trafford, and they could be set for even more positive news, with a crucial Aston Villa star set to be out of action against Carrick’s side.
Tielemans set to miss United test
As reported by Birmingham Live, Aston Villa could be set to face United without one of their most important stars, who is currently ruled out of action through injury.
Youri Tielemans has been pivotal to the Villains since he arrived at the club on a free transfer, although the issue he sustained against Newcastle United has only added to Unai Emery’s midfield woes.
It is already expected that Villa’s defensive midfielder, Boubacar Kamara, will miss the rest of the campaign, whilst John McGinn also sits on the sidelines.
Although it is expected that McGinn will return in time for his side’s trip to Old Trafford, Kamara, and now potentially Tielemans, will both miss the crucial clash.
United on track for top four
Following the win over Everton, Carrick’s side are now three points above both Liverpool and Chelsea, whilst they sit only three points behind the aforementioned Villains.
Villa, who at one point looked to have a top-four spot well within their grasp, could now be dragged into the race for a Champions League spot due to their recent struggles.
March is shaping up to be a pivotal month in what could be a down-to-the-wire race between all four of these Premier League sides, with Villa set to face Chelsea and United back-to-back.
The Reds will host Emery’s impressive Villains on Sunday, 15 March, where the visitors are likely to be without two of their most influential midfielders.
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