Erik ten Hag spoke about the selection “headache” he was presented with at Manchester United ahead of Barnsley’s trip to Old Trafford.
In what is somewhat of an anomaly in recent seasons, the Dutchman avoided significant injuries to his squad, with several stars vying for minutes.
Much to the delight of the manager, he is now on the cusp of a migraine, with further first-team members closing in on a return.
Speaking to the media on Thursday, ahead of his side’s trip to Selhurst Park, the United chief confirmed that Rasmus Hojlund and Mason Mount are back on the field.
“It’s very good news,” Ten Hag said in his pre-match press conference. “They are back on the pitch, they are back in team training, and, yeah, we have to decide whether they are fit enough to start.”
Ample options for multiple outings
With the Europa League presenting midweek fixtures, the 20-time English champions must juggle their affairs accordingly.
The Reds face three outings in nine days, with scheduling and minute management an inevitable variable for the former Ajax chief to consider.
“We have so many games also in this block to cover, so yeah, very happy,” he continued.
“They did a couple of training [sessions]. We will have to see how they recover, and then, tomorrow, we will make a final call.”
A Danish Delight
Hojlund has been unavailable since suffering an unfortunate hamstring injury during a pre-season fixture against Arsenal in July.
The Danish International has become a popular figure amongst the Old Trafford faithful, finding his feet emphatically in December of 2023.
Having overcome a difficult start to life in the North West, the hitman scored ten and assisted twice in 16 league fixtures from December 26th to the end of the campaign.
Erling Haaland hit 13 goals and one assist during the same period.
Hojlund’s presence at the head of Ten Hag’s attack is a prominent weapon and can lead the side against any outfit.
Yet to truly express himself
Supporters remain undecided about Mount, with the midfielder missing United’s last three games with a muscular issue.
His talent and ability are undeniable, but his time spent recovering from niggling injuries has overshadowed any positive moments on the field.
A return of 23 appearances is far less than anyone anticipated since his high-profile transfer from Chelsea in July 2023, but there is a real player there.
His availability is a huge boost for Ten Hag and provided he can remain fit and able, the former Chelsea man can play an integral role for the team.
How do you feel about this potential selection headache for Erik?
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