Victor Lindelof has opened up on injury issues that plagued him last term.
Defensively, Manchester United had several issues last term. If there was any Achilles heel for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s side, it was conceding cheap goals.
Victor Lindelof was at fault for several of those, though we may now know why. The Ice Man was dealing with back issues for the most part, he has revealed.
The United star has opened up on those constant injury issues in the 2021/22 season, but he has admitted he feels much better. No doubt his time off following participation at EURO 2020 was massive for him.
“I feel much better now,” Lindelof told ManUtd.com.
“I’ve been working very hard on my back especially during the break. I struggled a lot with it last season and had to really play through it.
“I played a game and then would need to rest for a couple of days and then it was straight into another game.
“That was tough, but like I say I’ve been working very hard with different types of exercises and treatment, and I feel much better.”
Lindelof has always been an intriguing player. He either looks like an absolute world-beater or a non-league defender. There’s no in-between.
With Raphael Varane now arriving, it’s Lindelof’s place in the team that’s immediately under threat – and this does feel like a message from Lindelof towards his new teammate.
Competition for places is exactly what Solskjaer wants, though. It worked wonders over at left-back when Alex Telles was signed. Now, having that fight for places at the heart of defence is equally as important as it pushes everyone to that next level in order to keep their place.
I feel much better about the situation this time around. Lindelof as a third choice option is an excellent place to be in, with the likes of Eric Bailly also in the mix to come into the side when needed.
For Lindelof, he has to start the season strong. With Varane having to isolate before his move can officially be confirmed, there’s every chance our Swede starts on the opening day against Leeds United.
He has to be nigh-on perfect to retain that starting job.
Does Victor Lindelof have what it takes to keep Raphael Varane out of the team? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.
Follow Old Trafford Faithful on Twitter for more Manchester United news.
Be the first to comment