Manchester United are almost certain to be without Joshua Zirkzee when they host Olympique Lyonnais at Old Trafford on Thursday night.
The technical forward was given the nod for yesterday’s Premier League clash away to Newcastle United, and, while he failed to have the desired impact in front of goal throughout his shift, there’s still a general belief amongst the Red Devils faithful that he’s a considerably better option than Rasmus Hojlund.
Unfortunately for United, Zirkzee was forced off in the 55th minute after appearing to pull his hamstring at the end of a surging run upfield. You’d expect it spells a lengthy setback for any player in most cases, so, given the proximity to the end of the term, it remains to be seen if fans will see him again in 2024/2025.
It’s perhaps the last thing Amorim needed in the build-up to a crunch Europa League quarter-final. The scoreline is tied at 2-2 heading into the second leg, with Zirkzee etching his name onto the scoresheet with a superb headed finish in the reverse fixture.
The boss’ reaction was telling after Zirkzee pulled up at St. James Park, too. Chris Wheeler revealed after the incident: “As soon as Zirkzee went down clutching his hamstring, Amorim turned to the dugout with his hands on his head and immediately summoned Hojlund who was warming up on the touchline. Such a shame for Zirkzee who was playing with real confidence.”
Indeed, it means Hojlund is likely to feature from the off despite his lacklustre form this campaign. That’s unless Amrorim opts for a tactical shake-up by utilising the likes of Bruno Fernandes further afield as a false No.9.
One slight positive on the team news front is that Luke Shaw made his long-awaited return to action last night in a brief cameo off the bench, so he may be granted a start to have the influential attacking impact he’s more than capable of.
