Michael Carrick rules out three Man Utd stars for Bournemouth clash, fresh defensive concern emerges

Manchester United interim manager Michael Carrick has provided the team news ahead of the Premier League contest with Bournemouth.

The Red Devils will travel to the Vitality Stadium on Friday.

Carrick has confirmed a triple injury setback for United in his pre-match press conference.

He said (via ManUtd.com): “Frustrating for Matta (Matthijs de Ligt), he’s obviously trying to work to get back but it’s just the back issue, really, that’s proving difficult. We’ll keep working as hard as we can to get him back as quick as we can.

“Lisandro Martinez is closer. A lot closer. He’s getting there, so after this one, I think he’ll be alright. Patrick Dorgu is a bit further down the line.”

Concern briefly rippled through the United fanbase when Noussair Mazraoui was absent from training earlier in the day.

Carrick provided an update on Mazraoui. He said: “He is just ill. Just wasn’t feeling too good today.”

Persistent back problems have prevented Matthijs de Ligt from featuring for United since November 30 last year. He was expected to return in January but sustained further setbacks.

Carrick sounded extremely concerned about the Dutch international. It looks like De Ligt is now facing a race against time to play again this campaign.

Lisandro Martinez suffered a calf injury before the trip to Everton. He has now missed the last four league games.

It was initially expected that Martinez would be available against the Cherries but it seems he needs more time to achieve full fitness.

On a positive note, it seems he will be starting against Leeds United after the international break.

Patrick Dorgu has been out since suffering a hamstring injury in the dramatic 3-2 victory over Arsenal in January. The young defender is targeting a return next month as he continues his recovery.

Carrick will also be hoping Mazraoui recovers in time to at least make the bench on Friday night.

Luke Shaw and Diogo Dalot are expected to start in full-back roles but Mazraoui provides adequate cover for both.

If he fails to recover in time, Carrick may once again call upon Tyrell Malacia to step in.

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .