Joshua Zirkzee to miss Europa League tie with Lyon through injury

Joshua Zirkzee will miss Manchester United’s Europa League second leg with Lyon after suffering a hamstring injury in their 4-1 defeat to Newcastle on Sunday.

It’s expected Zirkzee will also miss most of the rest of the season, with manager Ruben Amorim believing the Netherlands forward will be out for a number of weeks.

Speaking to MUTV after the game, Amorim said: “Josh, I think he will be out for some games.”

The Red Devils’ injury woes continue to impact their season, with Zirkzee now joining Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, Jonny Evans, Ayden Heaven and Amad Diallo on the treatment table, though long-term absentees Luke Shaw, Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount are returning to fitness.

Mount has come off the bench in each of United’s last four games, and while Amorim will be keen not to rush the Chelsea man back too soon, the 26-year-old may be called upon to start against Lyon, while Mainoo has also come off the bench in United’s last two outings.

Shaw made his long-awaited return to action against Newcastle, coming off the bench late on in his first appearance since the start of December, though Patrick Dorgu will likely get the nod against Lyon.

While United are starting to bring players back from injury, the Zirkzee blow does give Amorim something of a problem up front, with Rasmus Hojlund the only recognised centre forward available.

The Dane looks totally devoid of confidence having scored three goals in 27 games this season – and one in his last 17 – while Zirkzee hasn’t found the net in the Premier League in 19 games.

While Hojlund looks like he could use an extended spell on the sidelines, Amorim will likely be forced to deploy the out-of-form 22-year-old up front for their crucial Europa League tie.

United fell to a 2-2 draw with the French side scoring late in stoppage time, and considering how porous their defence has been, they’ll likely need a couple of goals if they’re to progress to the semi-finals, where they’d meet either Rangers or Athletic Club.

Despite their struggles, United are expected to progress in front of their home fans, priced up at 4/11 to qualify, with Lyon 2/1, while both teams to score is available at 4/6.

Liam Williams

• Manchester United F.C.
• Premier League
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