Manchester United have suffered an injury blow as defender Eric Bailly had to be stretchered off during their pre-season friendly against Tottenham on Thursday.
Bailly, who has struggled with injuries during his time at Old Trafford, was upset as he was taken off the field of play at the beginning of the second half. He later left the stadium on crutches and with his left knee in a brace.
The United centre half was replaced by Axel Tuanzebe as United led Premier League rivals Spurs 1-0 in Shanghai.
Bailly, whose position at United could become under threat should the club sign Leicester defender Harry Maguire, made just 18 appearances last season.
United manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer was coy over what Bailly’s injury meant for their pursuit of Maguire.
‘We’ve had six centre backs rotating here and all done well,’ Solskjaer said. ‘Phil Jones has played first three games, it was his turn to be rested today.
‘Marcos Rojo and Chris Smalling took their chance, looked really assured at the back.
‘Of course you’re never happy when you get injuries, let’s hope it’s not too bad for Eric.’
Prior to the injury on Thursday, the defender was reportedly fretting over his United future with the club heavily linked with a move for Maguire during the summer transfer window.
The extent of Bailly’s injury is not yet known but it could accelerate United’s chase to secure Maguire.
Bailly was former manager Jose Mourinho’s first signing in a £30million deal from Villarreal three years ago and he impressed during his debut campaign.
The 25-year-old however only has one year remaining at United and the club are yet to begin talks regarding an extension.
Lucas Moura equalised for Spurs following Bailly’s injury but United’s Angel Gomes scored the winner in the 80th minute to secure a 2-1 victory for Solskjaer’s side.
Source: Daily Mail
