Dorgu back in training but misses Roma clash as United's left-back crisis deepens

Patrick Dorgu rejoined Manchester United’s training group on Monday for the first time since suffering a hamstring injury on international duty in September, but manager Michael Carrick confirmed the Danish left-back will not be available for Tuesday’s Champions League tie against Roma at Old Trafford.

Carrick offered cautious optimism about Dorgu’s timeline, suggesting the 20-year-old could come into contention for Sunday’s Premier League fixture against Aston Villa depending on how he progresses through the week. “His first day with the group, Pat, so great to have him back,” said Carrick. “He’s worked ever so hard to be back with the group, but he won’t be involved tomorrow. We’ll see how he progresses through the week really, but great to have him back.”

United’s left-back options remain stretched, with Luke Shaw also absent from Monday’s session. Carrick confirmed Shaw will not return before the upcoming international break, having missed the club’s last five matches. Marcus Rashford was another absentee, continuing to manage hip and thigh injuries, though Carrick left the door open for a possible return later in the week. “Luke definitely won’t be around this week and fit at that point. Marcus, we’ll just have to see day by day how he keeps improving,” the manager said.

On a more positive note, Carrick moved to ease concerns over Leny Yoro after the French centre-back was spotted wearing strapping on his knee during training and in recent matches. The United boss clarified the issue is a recurring tendon problem that the 18-year-old has been managing without significant disruption to his availability.

“Leny’s just had a bit of a tendon really, so it’s one of them that kind of comes and goes, but he’s been managing it, and he’s been fine,” Carrick said. “I think he’s been fantastic, to be honest, been one of our best players, and he has been since he came back first day pre-season. He’s impressed us all a lot, so being delighted with Leny and his performances. He’s on a really good pathway.”

Yoro’s form will be crucial as United navigate a congested schedule, with the Roma match representing a significant test of their Champions League ambitions.