Leny Yoro suffers injury ahead of Chelsea clash

The pressure is building on Michael Carrick as his side prepares for a defining run of games, but the biggest concern right now is not form, it’s availability.

Injuries, suspensions and failed appeals have collided into a perfect storm, leaving Manchester United dangerously exposed at the back ahead of their trip to Stamford Bridge.

With rivals closing in, this latest setback could not have come at a worse moment in the season.

And now, things have gone from bad to worse.

According to The Sun, Leny Yoro is believed to have picked up an injury and did not travel with the squad to London, leaving United on the brink of a full-blown defensive crisis.

That absence means United could be without four of their five recognised centre-backs against Chelsea, forcing Carrick into a major rethink just days after the chaotic defeat to Leeds United.

There are fears the Frenchman could be out for the rest of the season.

Harry Maguire is already ruled out after his additional one-match ban was upheld by the FA, following his improper conduct charge for swearing at a fourth official after his red card against Bournemouth.

Lisandro Martinez will also miss out after his controversial dismissal against Leeds, with the FA rejecting United’s appeal despite the club arguing that the incident did not involve excessive force.

Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined as well, having not featured since November due to a persistent back injury, although he is said to be edging closer to a return.

With Leny Yoro now added to that list, Carrick is left with almost no senior options in central defence.

The expectation is that Luke Shaw could be deployed as a left centre-back, a role he has filled before during previous injury crises, despite naturally being a full-back.

Alongside him, 19-year-old Ayden Heaven is likely to be handed a huge responsibility, forming what can only be described as a makeshift defensive pairing.

Heaven has shown glimpses of promise in limited appearances, including a confident cameo earlier this season, but this would represent a massive step up.

Shaw’s experience may help guide the youngster, but the lack of cohesion and match rhythm between the two is an obvious concern heading into such a crucial fixture.

To make matters even more difficult, they will be up against a Chelsea attack led by Joao Pedro, who has been one of the standout performers this season.

The Brazilian forward has racked up 19 goals and nine assists across all competitions.

United’s defensive struggles have already been evident in recent weeks, with the side conceding sloppy goals and looking vulnerable under pressure.

Monday night’s defeat to Leeds only highlighted those issues further, and now with even fewer options available, the challenge becomes even greater.

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