Ruben Amorim has delivered praise for one of his Manchester United players ahead of a clash with West Ham after it was confirmed that Matthijs de Ligt is injured.
Manchester United secured a gritty 2–1 comeback win over Crystal Palace last week, and now attention turns to their next Premier League challenge against West Ham at Old Trafford.
Rúben Amorim’s side struggled in the first half at Selhurst Park, falling behind early, but inspired second-half performances from Joshua Zirkzee, Mason Mount, and captain Bruno Fernandes sparked a deserved turnaround.
That victory not only showcased resilience but also ended United’s long-running struggle to claim a league win in London against anyone other than Fulham; the last being back in January 2022.
While United are pushing toward the Champions League positions, the Hammers find themselves fighting at the opposite end of the table. West Ham have slipped into the relegation zone following Leeds United’s 3–1 win over Chelsea, adding extra urgency to their trip north.
Amorim will hope the confidence gained in South London helps his side maintain focus as the festive schedule intensifies, but with West Ham desperate for points, this meeting could prove far from straightforward.
Amorim praises Heaven
Amorim stated in his pre-match press conference that two players were doubts heading into the game against West Ham, and one of those has turned out to be Matthijs de Ligt.
The Dutch defender has played every minute so far this season in the Premier League but is not included in the squad to face the Hammers.
Instead of turning to Leny Yoro or Lisandro Martínez, Amorim has decided to select Ayden Heaven to start his first Premier League game of the season.
Heaven was very impressive when he appeared for United last term and his chances have been few and far between since the new season started but Amorim trusts him to play in the centre of the backline.
The United boss told Sky Sports ahead of the game: “Heaven has a big character. He is ready to play.”
De Ligt injury update
Heaven will be hoping to make the most of his opportunity, and it will be interesting to see how his comfortability in possession can help United.
On the other hand, De Ligt is a big miss for United but several reporters have claimed that the Dutch defender is only missing through a ‘minor issue’.
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The experienced defender could be back in training later this week ahead of United’s upcoming fixtures, which is a positive sign.
United still need to secure three points without De Ligt in the side. “It’s a small thing.” Amorim said of his injury. “I expect to have him in the next game. The rest of the guys are ready.”
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