Erik ten Hag faces a busy week as his Manchester United side entertains fixtures domestically and on the continent, and he may have to continue without a recognised left-sided defender.
Following Saturday’s frustrating stalemate at Selhurst Park, the Dutchman will be keen to return to winning ways with Wednesday’s Europa League opener against FC Twente.
Ten Hag is more than a little familiar with the Tukkers, having begun and ended his playing career in Enschede.
Ahead of the midweek fixture, the status of several first-team players remains unclear, with Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia unavailable at the weekend.
Either player’s presence on the left side of the defence will offer undeniable stability, with Diogo Dalot continuing to deputise in their absence.
But, with fresh speculation surfacing regarding a potential pursuit of Antonee Robinson, supporters are desperate for a reliable left-sided defender at Old Trafford.
An exciting prospect for multiple Premier League clubs
The Fulham full-back has been a standout performer for the Cottagers, offering undeniable quality at either end of the field.
Dan Ashworth is a long-term admirer of the defender, with United reported to have considered a summer move.
Representing the United States internationally, the 27-year-old would be keen on a transfer to the North West, with European football a long-term desire.
But his performances have attracted the attention of several suitors, with TeamTalk claiming Liverpool are plotting a January swoop for the Fulham star.
The left side of Ten Hag’s defence has supplied ample issues for some, with Shaw regarded as one of the finest options in Europe.
But the England international has not featured since collecting a muscle injury against Luton in February.
Although he returned to Gareth Southgate’s side in the summer, a calf injury added further frustration.
A return is anticipated in the coming weeks, but supporters are apprehensive about the player’s long-term future, having missed 271 games for club and country since his arrival in Manchester.
Alternatively, Malacia has not featured for over a year, last lining out against Fulham in May 2023.
A reported knee injury has been the culprit for the promising 25-year-old since arriving as Ten Hag’s first signing for €15 million in 2022.
Ultimately, Manchester United should not be slotting square pegs into round holes, and although Dalot has performed admirably, last season’s Player of the Year is a natural right-sided defender.
Harry Amass is a massively talented youngster, and Old Trafford officials view him as the future option in defence.
But, having turned 17 in March, he requires time to acclimatise to the pace, physicality and demands of the Premier League.
What are your thoughts about the left side of Ten Hag’s team?
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