Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is concerned with his team’s current injury situation as they gear up for matchday three action in the UEFA Europa League.
United head to Turkey to take on Fenerbahce at the Sukru Saracoglu Stadium on Thursday and will be up against some familiar faces in former boss Jose Mourinho as well as midfielders Fred and Sofyan Amrabat.
However, ten Hag is understandably frustrated with his current depleted squad ahead of the game as he is unable to call on 10 of his first team players.
Captain Bruno Fernandes is unavailable for the trip after receiving a red card in their 3-3 draw at Porto, and veteran defender Johnny Evans is also out with an injury he picked up in their win against Brentford on Saturday.
The injury list stretches as the Red Devils are still without Mason Mount, Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, Harry Maguire, and summer signing Leny Yoro, who has resumed outdoor training but is not expected to make his debut anytime soon.
“Hopefully we won’t get any more injuries, otherwise we will be short,” Ten Hag said.
United’s injury situation has been a reoccurring problem since last season, and it contributed largely to their abysmal showing in the previous campaign.
Although the former Ajax manager is unhappy with their current situation, he is hopeful that the team will do their best.
“It is never easy but we have to deal with it and we will deal with it,” Ten Hag added.
“We have to cover many games in a short time and we will do that the best as possible. Players like to play football so as long as you have enough players available to construct a team, it’s best to play.”
United are currently 21st in the Europa League standings with just two points from their opening two games following draws with FC Twente and Porto.
