In a pre-match press conference ahead of Manchester United’s encounter against West Ham United on Sunday (via Manchester Evening News), Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was asked about the availability of Paul Pogba, Anthony Martial and Luke Shaw for this clash to which he replied, “Not really, no. They’ve not been training yet so I don’t think so. [Luke] won’t be ready.”
The Red Devils managed to rest most of their first-team players during their 1-0 victory over Astana in midweek. However, the likes of Pogba, Martial and Shaw have not been able to recover in time to be available for this Premier League contest at East London.
Three Players That Can Help Fill The Void Left By The Unavaiablity Of Pogba, Martial And Shaw
Solskjaer will need to find some ways to cope with the talented trio’s absence this weekend. The Norwegian head coach is expected to play Ashley Young at left-back. The English talent has been a bit vulnerable defensively, but he can create some decent chances for Man United going forward. Even though Young is not as effective as Shaw at the back, he has enough experience to put in a solid display versus the Hammers this weekend.
Man United could rely on Fred’s services alongside Scott McTominay if they are looking to get more creativity out of their central midfielders. Pogba will undoubtedly be a huge miss, but the Brazilian midfield ace can be an ideal back-up to the Frenchman as evidenced by his impressive display against Astana in the UEFA Europa League.
Mason Greenwood could fill in the shoes of Anthony Martial if Solskjaer decides to call upon his services during the game. The 17-year-old scored his first goal for the Red Devils in midweek and will be high in confidence ahead of this weekend’s encounter against Manuel Pellegrini’s men.
Marcus Rashford is currently shooting blanks in front of the opposition goal so the Red Devils could benefit from playing an in-form and highly motivated Greenwood at the London Stadium.
Does Solskjaer Have Enough Options To Get A Win On The Road?
There is no denying that Man United have been hit hard with injuries to some of their star players of late. However, Solskjaer should still have a strong team at his disposal to earn maximum points from this encounter versus the Hammers on Sunday.
