Video: Concern over Angel di Maria after nasty challenge by ex-Manchester United winger Nani
There is further concern in Manchester United ranks after Angel di Maria was clattered into by Nani in the 18th minute of the international friendly between Argentina and Portugal on Tuesday night at Old Trafford, the home ground of the Manchester club.
Added angles have been given to the incident, because of the current domestic allegiances of the two players involved. Angel di Maria has usurped Nani’s place in the United starting line-up this season, while the Portuguese has been loaned out to Sporting Lisbon as part of the Marcos Rojo deal.
Di Maria was left writhing on the pitch after the mistimed tackle-turned-stamp-on-foot, and Argentine coach Gerardo Martino instructed Nico Gaitan to warm up. True to his indomitable reputation though, the winger recovered and continued to play for another hour, when he was replaced by Tottenham man Erik Lamela.
Nani expresses desire to resume playing days in Manchester
Gerardo Martino praised the fighting spirit of his star midfielder, and said, "It was a tough knock. It cut the skin a little bit. But we have had a look at it and we are evaluating the situation.
We are having a look at some X-rays, some images that have been taken. But in spite of that we don't think it is too serious."
Di Maria himself went on to play down fears over the injury ahead of Saturday's Premier League clash against Arsenal, posting on his official Twitter account: “It was just a blow. I hope it does not swell anymore so I can play at the weekend.”
Nani, the villain of the piece, later revealed that he would be open to restarting his United career despite enjoying his loan spell in Portugal.
"I'm trying to do my best. Things are going well and I hope it continues like that. (But) why not? I went out to play more and get to my best, and it is an opportunity. We will see."