Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has indicated that Mason Mount is likely to make his return to action against Burnley this weekend.
Mount, who joined United from Chelsea in a £55 million deal, has been plagued by injuries since his transfer, restricting him to just 17 appearances for the club.
Despite recently recovering from a calf injury, the 25-year-old experienced another setback, causing him to miss United’s last two matches against Sheffield United in the league and Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final.
Ten Hag told BBC’s Match of the Day: “For coming back for the game against Burnley, I don’t expect (the majority of United’s players to make a comeback). Mason Mount, he will return, I think.”
However, Ten Hag also disclosed that there would be no additions to the defensive line, as several key defenders are sidelined due to injury. These include Lisandro Martinez, Victor Lindelof, Jonny Evans, Raphael Varane, and Willy Kambwala.
This has left the Dutch tactician with few options in defense, leading him to deploy Brazilian midfielder Casemiro in central defense.
Despite partnering with Harry Maguire, Casemiro’s inclusion has failed to bring stability to United’s backline, resulting in the team conceding five goals in their last two games.
Yet Tan Hag backed Casemiro’s abilities as a centre-back and said: “I think he’s a very good centre-back, together with Harry. Very stable in and out of possession.”
Mount’s potential return could provide a timely boost to United’s midfield, offering additional creativity and attacking impetus in the crucial stages of the season.
They currently sit in sixth place in the Premier League table, three points ahead of Newcastle United but seven behind Tottenham Hotspur who are holding on to the Europa League spot.
After hosting Burnley, they will be in line to face Crystal Palace, Arsenal, Newcastle and Brighton in the Premier League.