Amorim Concerned Over Long Absence for United Skipper Fernandes

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim believes captain Bruno Fernandes could miss several matches after suffering an injury in the 2-1 loss to Aston Villa on Sunday.

The Portuguese playmaker has appeared in all Premier League fixtures this term, yet his hamstring problem at Villa Park suggests he will not keep up that record.

The 31 year old carried on briefly after appearing to strain his hamstring near half time, though he sat out the entire second period.

Amorim confirmed the key player will skip the Boxing Day encounter with Newcastle, and his participation in upcoming holiday fixtures remains highly uncertain.

"It involves soft tissue damage. He might sit out a few games. Nothing is certain yet, we will assess it," Amorim commented.

"These situations are unpredictable, so time will tell. Fernandes stays in great shape usually, which aids recovery, but I cannot predict exactly."

This latest setback for Fernandes adds to Amorims woes, as England youngster Kobbie Mainoo also missed the Villa match with a calf complaint.

The 20 year old was the focus of attention before the game, following his siblings 'Free Kobbie Mainoo' shirt at the recent 4-4 thriller versus Bournemouth at Old Trafford.

Mainoo was poised for his initial Premier League start this season against Newcastle, but now faces an extended absence.

"We will evaluate our options," Amorim stated. "Kobbie Mainoo is unavailable, Bruno too, but we adapt. Solutions must be found, no complaints allowed.

"Victory in the upcoming match is essential, and we aim to secure it."

Casemiro returns from his ban for the Newcastle game, while Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui join the Africa Cup of Nations, with Matthijs de Ligt and Harry Maguire nursing injuries.

With such a depleted squad, speculation grows about January recruits, though Amorim remains calm.

"We manage accordingly," he noted. "Rushing into deals come January would lead to errors, repeating past pitfalls.

"I avoid demanding numerous additions since we follow a strategy. If enduring hardship is required, the team takes priority. 

"Points are crucial now, yet we seek internal fixes and stick to our approach."