Manchester United star suffers knock in Manchester City defeat; doubtful for Fulham clashÂ
Manchester United defender Harry Maguire suffered a knock during their defeat to Manchester City in the FA Community Shield at Wembley Stadium on Saturday (August 10). This could see him potentially miss their opening Premier League game of the season against Fulham next weekend.
It was uncertain if the former club captain would be involved in the clash against City, with manager Erik ten Hag revealing doubts. Speaking ahead of the Community Shield, the head coach had opened up about Maguire's fitness in a press conference, saying (via Eurosport):
"Harry Maguire missed the game [against Liverpool] - a precaution but is still a question mark for Saturday. So we have training; we have to see whether he is fit enough or not to be available."
Eventually, Maguire was available and selected to start in defense. The Manchester United defender helped combat Manchester City's constant attacks and domination. However, he was brought off near the hour mark.
After the game, Erik ten Hag revealed that Maguire had picked up a knock and would be a doubtf for the game against Fulham. He told the press (via Metro):
"[There is] a little knock with Harry [Maguire]. We hope he can keep fit and available for next week when we start the season."
There are already a number of Red Devils who will have to spend some time at the doctor's office ahead of the Fulham clash next weekend. New signing Leny Yoro will not be available due to injury, and Rasmus Hojlund, who started his United career injured, will be out of contention in the meantime.
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag backs struggling winger Marcus Rashford
Last season saw Marcus Rashford struggle to impact games with his goalscoring, and there seems to be a continuation this season. The winger had two massive chances to open the scoring for Manchester United in the Community Shield but missed the target twice.
This eventually led to penalties, where the Cityzens were the better side and won the Community Shield. However, Ten Hag has backed Rashford to improve as the season unfolds. He said (via ESPN):
"I think he was several times in very good positions, I'm very pleased he is getting in those positions. Keep going, keep making those movements and the team will make those movements, he will score goals. He's experienced enough to deal with this and once he scores one, then the goals will come."
The winger will be hoping that goals do come, as he looks to impress the Manchester United fanbase this season.