Harry Diamond
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has provided an update on the fitness of Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani ahead of tomorrow evening’s huge Manchester derby.
Martial and Cavani both missed the midweek defeat to RB Leipzig that saw the Red Devils crash out of the Champions League group stages, with both substituted with injuries during last weekend’s 3-1 win at West Ham at the London Stadium.
Solskjaer has confirmed the Martial will return to the squad for tomorrow’s crunch clash at Old Trafford, with the France international having returned to training ahead of the visit of Pep Guardiola’s side.
When as at his pre-match press conference about Martial’s availability, Solskjaer replied: “Definitely be involved.”
The Norwegian was less confident on the fitness of summer signing Cavani, who despite also returning to training remains a doubt and will be assessed before the clash.
Cavani has made an impressive start since signing on a free transfer after leaving Paris Saint-Germain, the Uruguayan international scoring three goals in just 175 minutes of action, with Solskjaer revealing there will be a late decision on his involvement.
“Edinson Cavani is back training but we will make a decision later on,” the Norweigan said.
Solskjaer also discussed the position of David de Gea who has come under fierce criticism following the club’s early elimination from the Champions League, the goalkeeper culpable for Leipzig’s third goal at the Red Bull Arena with some tentative goalkeeping for Justin Kluivert’s goal.
The Spanish international has come under pressure this season following the return of Dean Henderson from an impressive two-season loan spell at Sheffield United, the latter having started the win over West Ham last weekend.
Solskjaer, however, has defended the under-fire De Gea and has labelled the 30-year-old as one of the best goalkeepers in Europe despite his indifferent showings.
“David is a top goalkeeper on the list for the best in Europe. He is a boy that we rely on. Hopefully he has not been affected by criticism.”
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