Harry Maguire is expected to miss Manchester United’s Europa League final against Villarreal next week.
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer confirmed Maguire was walking without the aid of crutches, but was still to progress to running.
AFP
The centre-back has been integral for the club since his £80million move from Leicester in 2019.
The 28-year-old was forced off in the comeback win at Aston Villa on May 9 after Anwar El Ghazi awkwardly landed on him.
Maguire suffered ankle ligament damage in the incident and his absence has been sorely missed with seven goals conceded in the three games he hasn’t played.
They’ve picked up just one point in that time, and the news that he may not play again before the Euros this summer is also a cause for concern for England boss Gareth Southgate.
Getty
Solskjaer had initially been upbeat about the Red Devils skipper returning to lead the side out in Wednesday’s final in Gdansk.
However, Solskjaer’s positivity has waned and the United boss revealed on Friday that he now expects the England international to miss the shot at glory against Villarreal.
“He’s walking but it’s a long way from walking to running so, to be honest, I don’t think we’ll see him in Gdansk, no,” the Norwegian said after the centre-back was pictured walking without crutches on Thursday evening.
“But, as I’ve said so many times, I’m going to give him until Tuesday night, the last training session, and see if he can try to be out there.
“Steadily but surely he’s improving but ligaments they take time to heal.”
Getty
Solskjaer expects the captain to play an important role off the field in Poland if, as expected, he does not make it.
“He’s a very important person in the dressing room and a leader,” the United boss said ahead of Sunday’s Premier League trip to Wolves.
“Before the fans came in, I think you all heard him from the stands.
“He does still want the team to do well, of course, he’s organising even from the stands, which has been easy because it’s been so quiet.
“So, he’ll come (to Poland), he’ll be in the dressing room, he’ll make sure everyone’s ready for the final.”
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