A Brandon Williams injury ruled the young left-back out of international duty. Now, with just a few weeks to go before the season starts, Manchester United are sweating on his fitness.
According to the Manchester Evening News, United have confirmed the problem, ruling Williams out of international duty – at either U21 or possibly senior level.
The first-team regular has suffered a foot problem, handing United an injury concern just three weeks before their 2020/21 Premier League term kicks off against Crystal Palace.
With Luke Shaw suffering a season-ending injury against Southampton, United really need Williams to be fit for their opener on September 19th. At this stage, it’s unclear as to whether the ex-Southampton man will be ready for action when the new term kicks off.
How long is Williams out for?
At this stage, it’s unclear. The MEN report that Williams will ‘hope’ to be fit for the game against The Eagles. Though it’s a massive shame he was denied his first chance at a place in the England U21s set up – or possibly a spot in Gareth Southgate’s squad due to a left-back injury crisis.
In terms of replacements, United are down to the bare bones. Timothy Fosu-Mensah can play out there, as can Diogo Dalot. Both have uncertain Red Devils futures, though, particularly the latter…
A new signing at left-back looks unlikely, so Ole Gunnar Solskjaer may have to dip into the youth setup at the AON Training Complex once more. I’m immediately looking at Ethan Laird as the likely candidate – though here’s hoping it doesn’t come to that.
Williams is a tough young man. Depending on the severity, I don’t doubt he’d put his body on the line for the cause and force himself to be fit (to some degree) if his manager needs him.
I’d like to think he’ll be ready, though a lack of training sessions before the Palace game may be Williams’ biggest concern.
Who would you select at left-back in the wake of the latest Brandon Williams injury news? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
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