Solskjaer Challenges Senior United Trio To “Step Up” In Injury Crisis

Manchester United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer believes Juan Mata, Nemanja Matic and Ashley Young will need to make telling contributions in light of the club’s injury crisis.

The Red Devils have five players officially out for the game against Leicester, while two others face late fitness tests, and Solskjaer wants the senior trio to ensure they step up to the plate in the absence of so many other players:

“Well, you’ve got players who can come in with loads of experience: Juan [Mata], Nemanja [Matic] and Ash [Young], who didn’t start the first game and have got to step up and the average age might go up.”

Young will continue to deputise for Luke Shaw who is still nursing a hamstring problem. Juan Mata started against Southampton and his creativity will also be vital in upcoming games.

The news of Paul Pogba’s injury means Nemanja Matic is likely to be the main beneficiary.  The Serbian has been unhappy about the lack of first-team opportunities so far this season, but Pogba’s absence could see him get more regular action.

Even so, United will face Leicester this afternoon with a weakened team, and they will be hoping it will be enough to overcome their opponents who have had an unbeaten start to the season.