Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has clarified why star defender Matthijs de Ligt is absent from the matchday squad for the Premier League clash against West Ham United. The Dutch centre-back, who has been ever-present this season, misses his first game of the campaign due to a minor fitness issue.
Amorim had hinted during his pre-match press conference that two unnamed players were doubtful for selection, and de Ligt has now been confirmed as one of them. The defender has featured in every minute of United’s Premier League season so far and also appeared in the Carabao Cup tie against Grimsby Town.
Speaking to Premier League Productions before kick-off, Amorim acknowledged the setback but assured supporters that the problem is not expected to keep de Ligt out for long.
“It is a blow. He is playing really, really well,” Amorim said. “But I’m really excited with Ayden [Heaven]. He has the right characteristics to play there. It is a big opportunity for everyone to see Ayden.”
The manager also indicated that the issue is minor and that he expects de Ligt to return for United’s next match against Wolverhampton Wanderers at Molineux on Monday night.
United enter a congested festive period now, and squad rotation will be crucial. With de Ligt unavailable, Ayden Heaven makes his first league start of the season, joined in defence by Noussair Mazraoui and Luke Shaw, while youngster Leny Yoro moves to the bench.
Best wishes to Matthijs de Ligt for a quick recovery as United navigate a key stretch of fixtures.
