Man Utd get ‘colossal’ injury boost ahead of Newcastle clash

Manchester United will be able to rely on Harry Maguire when they clash heads with Newcastle United on Wednesday evening.

This hasn’t exactly been a glorious day for the Sheffield native. Several sources confirmed that a Greek court handed a suspended 21-month sentence to the 32-year-old following allegations of aggravated assault, resisting arrest, and attempted bribery stemming from an infamous incident that ensued during a family vacation in Mykonos back in the summer of 2020.

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Maguire is expected to appeal the verdict, but in the meantime, he’ll be keen to extend his run of good form on the pitch.

Harry Maguire available for Man Utd against Newcastle

On Sunday, the England international was forced to leave the pitch in the second half against Crystal Palace, making way for Ayden Heaven.

Ahead of the midweek clash against Newcastle, Man Utd boss Michael Carrick revealed during his pre-match press conference that Maguire felt unwill in the weekend, which prompted his exit.

Harry Maguire smiles while warming up for Man United at Old Trafford before kick-off. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

According to the Daily Mail journalist Chris Wheeler, Maguire has recovered from illness, making himself available for selection on Wednesday.

Luke Shaw was said to be in a similar situation, having to undergo a late athletic test to prove his fitness, but it remains unclear whether the left-back will be part of the squad that will arrive at St James’ Park in the next few hours.

Why Maguire’s presence is crucial for United

The return of the former Leicester City star to the fold will give Carrick a major boost, especially with Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez still unavailable. After all, Maguire has been widely praised for his ‘colossal’ displays this season.

While Leny Yoro’s starting spot is virtually assured, it remains to be seen if Maguire is fit enough to play from the first minute or will instead start on the bench. In the latter case, Heaven would be the natural replacement.

Nevertheless, Carrick would feel more comfortable fielding the English veteran from the get-go, considering how the team tends to register better results with him on the pitch.