Manchester United's crucial Premier League encounter with West Ham United on Thursday night is set to be impacted by significant squad absences, with as many as eight players potentially missing the fixture at Old Trafford.
Manchester United's Injury Concerns Mount
United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed a double injury blow ahead of the match, ruling out both defender Harry Maguire and striker Benjamin Sesko. The pair have been sidelined since picking up knocks in the 2-2 draw with Tottenham before the November international break and will miss their third consecutive game.
Amorim also revealed there are two further unnamed players who are doubts for the clash, which could further deplete his options. However, there was positive news regarding forward Matheus Cunha, who is available for selection again after his own spell out injured.
"We have two doubts for the game, it will change the way we're going to approach it, let's see if they can play," Amorim stated in his pre-match press conference. "The rest of the squad is good. Matheus is back. Harry and Sesko are still out."
West Ham's Selection Headaches
The visitors from London are also grappling with their own selection crisis. Hammers boss Nuno Espirito Santo confirmed that winger Crysencio Summerville will not be in the squad for the trip to Manchester.
In a major setback, creative midfielder Lucas Paqueta is suspended following the red card he received in Sunday's 2-0 defeat to Liverpool. Young defender Ollie Scarles, despite returning to non-contact training, remains unavailable, and experienced goalkeeper Lukasz Fabianski continues to be absent with a back injury.
Context of the Premier League Clash
The match comes with both sides in contrasting recent form. Manchester United will be aiming to build momentum after a comeback 2-1 victory over Crystal Palace last Sunday, where goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount secured the points.
West Ham, meanwhile, are looking to respond after their loss at Anfield. Prior to that defeat, they had been on a three-match unbeaten run, with wins against Newcastle United and Burnley and a draw with Bournemouth.
For United, securing all three points is vital if they are to maintain their push for a Champions League qualification spot by the season's end. The absence of key personnel on both sides, however, is sure to influence the tactical battle on Thursday night.
