Can we get some ice and deep heat over here please? And some of that magic spray!
Manchester United fans will be sweating on the fitness of Michael Carrick ahead of this weekend’s game at Chelsea. Carrick, who has been on fire this season, hobbled off the pitch with a calf strain at the weekend and there are grave concerns about his ability to recover in time.
The really annoying part of this is that the loss of Carrick could be crucial in this game. He’s been so important to Manchester United in their current run and the loss of the Englishman could also mean a loss of momentum.
Because we believe, such is the form of the side at the moment, that if Manchester United could select the team that started against City on Sunday, they would beat Chelsea this weekend.
The title race is all but over but a United win, followed by an Arsenal victory at The Emirates in Chelsea’s next game, and some pressure would at least be applied.
But Manchester United would be severely weakened, not just in terms of personnel but also overall team balance, if Carrick didn’t make the team. Daley Blind would likely come into the middle and, while he is decent in the anchor man role, we have seen of late that his best position is at left back. He doesn’t have the passing range or forward thrust of Carrick and this could tip the balance in favour of Chelsea on Saturday teatime.
So Carrick will be getting a 24/7 rub down in order to get him fit for this one as Manchester United fans pray for his fitness.
