The reason for Shea Lacey’s absence from the matchday squad against Tottenham Hotspur has been revealed.
Manchester United made it four straight wins in the Premier League under Michael Carrick after a commanding 2-0 victory against Tottenham Hotspur, thanks to goals from Bryan Mbeumo and Bruno Fernandes.
Despite an initial good start by United, Tottenham wrestled their way back into the match and were on the front foot. However, their momentum came to an immediate halt after captain Cristian Romero was sent off just before the half-hour mark for a reckless challenge on Casemiro, giving United the upper hand.
Shortly after, in the 38th minute, Mbeumo took the lead for United after a well-worked set piece, leading to the ball landing in the box for the Cameroonian to finish clinically with a first-time strike into the bottom right corner, past Guglielmo Vicario.
In the second half, United continued their dominant display. It secured all three points with ten minutes remaining of the match, thanks to Diogo Dalot firing a pinpoint accurate cross to his compatriot Fernandes to rifle into the net to make it 2-0.
Lacey’s absence revealed
Despite the brilliant display by United today, one absence that was puzzling and unexpected to many was Shea Lacey.
After slowly becoming a regular in the matchday squad and showing flashes of his brilliance, fans have been eager to see more of the young starlet. The red card against Brighton was a slight setback, but he returned to the squad against Fulham as soon as his suspension was over.
However, SullyTalkz have revealed that Lacey picked up a minor calf injury during the week, which kept him out.
The injury is not expected to be serious, as initial scans suggest he could return in a few weeks. The club understandebly given the Englishman’s previous struggles with injury, will take time with his recovery.
United’s attack the point of difference
The difference between the attack this season and last season is why United are enjoying the success they are now, as they sit fourth in the league.
Last season, United scored only 44 goals all season in the Premier League, whereas this season they have already beaten that tally with 46 goals.
Read more: Owen Hargreaves explains what’s ‘very different’ about Man Utd after City and Arsenal wins
Of all the signings in the summer, Mbeumo has undoubtedly been the pick of the bunch with nine goals this season as United’s top scorer. The fluidity he provides up front with Matheus Cunha, Fernandes and Amad has been the key to elevating United in front of goal
. The Red Devils have transitioned from a predictable attack, with the focus on the wing-backs to create space under Amorim, the star forwards being positioned in their best spots to cause damage.
With the likes of Lacey, JJ Gabriel, Kai Rooney and Chido Obi all coming through the ranks of the academy, the future is looking bright for the attack.
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