Christian Eriksen has been ruled out until April at the earliest, after being forced off in Manchester United’s FA Cup win over Reading.
The midfielder, who was caught by a tackle from Andy Carroll, left Old Trafford on crutches after the 3-1 win on Saturday and now looks set to miss a significant amount of United’s run-in.
“While investigations are continuing, initial assessments indicate that Eriksen is likely to be out until late April or early May,” Man Utd announced on their official website.
The 30-year-old has been a key figure for Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag this season, recording seven assists and scoring once in 19 Premier League appearances.
Carragher: A blow but Man Utd still on for top-four finish
Reacting to the news, Sky Sports pundit Jamie Carragher said Eriksen would be a miss for United, given the impact he’s had in the middle of the park for them, but suggested they have the cover to maintain the momentum which has pushed them up into the Champions League qualifying places.
“It’s a big blow because the midfield has been the biggest turnaround for Man Utd this season, with Casemiro being there, Eriksen alongside him and Bruno Fernandes in front of them,” said Carragher.
“Fred and Scott McTominay have been much maligned over the last couple of years. A lot of that has been harsh. Fred alongside Casemiro – you’re talking about Brazil’s central midfield.
“But Man Utd aren’t going to win the league and I don’t think they’re going to fall out of the top four, so it’s not going to massively affect them in terms of where they finish this season, there’s too big a gap between themselves, Arsenal and Man City [and the rest].”
