In a recent interview mentioned by the Daily Mail, Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has provided an update over the availability of Victor Lindelof for the upcoming clash against Brighton and Hove Albion this weekend. When asked about the team news for the contest at Old Trafford, the Norwegian boss said (via the Daily Mail), ‘Hopefully Scott, hopefully Victor as well. He hasn’t trained this week – it’s his foot.’
Man United’s Poor Defensive Record In The Premier League
This recent development will come as a welcome bit of news ahead of what could be a tricky test at home for the Red Devils. Solskjaer needs most of his first-team players to be fit and healthy so that he can focus on getting the best out of them this season. The Mancunian outfit has not kept a clean sheet in the Premier League since their 1-0 win over Leicester City back in September.
Even though Lindelof’s form has been questionable during this campaign, there is no doubt that he has improved a lot from last season. The 25-year-old has featured in ten league matches for Man United this term, making an average of 0.9 tackles, 0.7 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per game in the English top-flight (stats via whoscored).
The Vasteras-born talent has also earned 32 international caps for Sweden while scoring three goals in the process. Having him back for the match against Brighton will undoubtedly help Man United keep things stable at the back.
What Does Lindelof Offer On The Playing Field?
Lindelof has decent pace in his locker and can make some vital clearances for his side. He is also quite capable of making a few well-timed tackles at the back. The Swede can be a decent defender when he is playing with confidence on the pitch. However, the jury is still out on whether he can put in a consistent run of performances for the Red Devils.
Lindelof Set To Comeback Vs Brighton: Huge Boost For Man United?
There is no denying that Lindelof’s return from injury will be a massive boost for Solskjaer and his side’s chances of securing a clean sheet versus Graham Potter’s men this weekend. The Sweden international has formed a solid partnership with Harry Maguire at the heart of the Man United backline.
With Eric Bailly and Axel Tuanzebe still out injured, Solskjaer would need all the help that he can get to clinch a run of positive results in the Premier League. If Lindelof can return to form soon, then there might be a chance for Man United to close the gap to the top 4 during the busy festive period when the fixtures come thick and fast in English football.
