INJURIES RAVAGE MANCHESTER DERBY

The Manchester derby on Thursday would see a depleted number of soccer stars in action as both teams have several injured players.


United summer signing Paul Pogba has joined the list of players that would be missing in action, according to reports. The French star was expected to play a dominant role as fellow summer addition Zlatan Ibrahimovic picked up a long term injury in a Europa League clash. He joins the host of stars on the sidelines for the game. Juan Mata, Chris Smalling, Marcos Rojo and Phil Jones remain injured but Antonio Valencia and Ander Herrera are fit to play.

Manchester United defeated Burnley on Sunday to go fifth on the log. They are a point behind Man City as the fight for the top four intensifies. Coach Jose Mourinho has hinted at the possibility of playing a second-string team as he prioritizes the continental affair. He said the injury crisis and tough schedule would force his hands. It might also be a ploy to take the pressure off the side. They recently defeated Chelsea, and have managed to get results against big teams this term. Read More

Louis Van Gaal says Angel may leave Club

Manchester United boss Louis Van Gaal says that he cannot completely rule out the possibility of Angel Di Maria leaving the club in the summer.

The club’s record signing is reportedly unhappy – along with his girlfriend – to live in Manchester. His form has dipped considerably compared to his initial few months at United. After having an attempted burglary incident at his home a few weeks ago, di Maria has been living at a hotel. All these situations have not been ideal for him and this could leave the Argentine demanding an exit in the summer.

Given that he is the club’s most valuable player, United are unlikely to allow him to leave easily. Van Gaal, though, concedes that an unhappy player will not be of much use to him. The 27-year-old has contributed only three assists in his last 10 appearances, while he is currently serving a suspension received as a result of the direct red card in the 2-1 defeat against Arsenal. Van Gaal says that the attitude by the player since the red card has been excellent and he is hoping for better performances in the future. Van Gaal also has to deal with poor performances of another big-name signing in the form of Radamel Falcao. Read More