Man Utd ‘could recall forgotten man from LaLiga loan to bolster defence’ amid injury crisis
MANCHESTER UNITED could recall left-back Alvaro Fernadez from his loan spell at Granada as they try to cope with their latest injury crisis.
The Reds were missing 11 first team players for Monday’s FA Cup third round win against Wigan Athletic.
Erik ten Hag is hopeful that a few stars will be back on Sunday for their game against Ange Postecoglou’s Tottenham Hotspur.
The Dutch manager said: “I think it’s hopeful that they can be back at the weekend.
“I’m talking about Christian Eriksen, potentially Luke Shaw. Harry (Maguire) maybe, Mason (Mount) I think he needs some days or a week more.”
But according to the Daily Mail “there are growing concerns at Granada that United defender Fernandez will be recalled from his loan spell at the Spanish club”.
It remains to be seen where Fernandez’s future lies, with the 20-year-old out of contract in the summer.
He was sent out on loan for Granada after his successful loan spell last season at Championship side Preston North End.
The former Real Madrid youth star, who has play a first-team game for United, has made 14 appearances in all competitions for the Spanish side this season.
He is yet to register a goal or assist.
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United’s emergency left-back Sergio Reguilon‘s brief loan move from Spurs ended last week, with a club statement claiming Shaw and Tyrell Malacia were on their way back.
It read: “Sergio fulfilled the role he was brought in for: to provide cover for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia while both were out with long-term injuries.
“While Luke has missed the past two games with a minor injury, the England international is expected back soon. Tyrell, meanwhile, is getting closer to a return from his knee injury.
“The versatile Diogo Dalot can also provide further cover at left-back.
“With fewer games in the second half of the season and injured players returning, there will be less opportunity for Sergio to play.
“It was decided it was in the best interests of all parties for Reguilon to return to Spurs.”
The majority of Manchester United‘s injuries have involved defenders this season.
World Cup winner Lisandro Martinez has been out since September with an aggravation of the foot injury he suffered in April.
England international Maguire has missed 12 games through hamstring and groin injuries after his resurgence in form that saw the 30-year-old win Premier League player of the month for November.
Malacia has been out all season but it is hoped he will return soon.
United have just extended the contracts of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Victor Lindelof until 2025 as they look to reinforce their backline.
Anthony Martial, meanwhile, could be on his way out, with Fenerbahce reportedly interested in making a £6.8m offer for the 28-year-old forward.