Ruben Amorim confirms key defender's return to Manchester United training; won't be available for Forest clash

Manchester United head coach Ruben Amorim confirmed that central defender Victor Lindelof returned to training ahead of the side's clash against Nottingham Forest in the Premier League. However, the Swedish defender has not recovered fully and is not expected to feature in the clash on Saturday, December 7.

Speaking to the press, he said (via Manchester Evening News):

"Victor has returned to training but isn't available for tomorrow, maybe in the next game he will be available."

Lindelof reportedly suffered a groin injury in Sweden's clash against Slovakia during the previous international break. He is yet to make an appearance under Amorim.

Manchester United have gone through an injury crisis with their defenders this season. Luke Shaw has struggled to maintain fitness while Tyrell Malacia has just returned from a lengthy setback. The likes of Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez have also missed some action.

The failure to name a settled lineup has certainly affected the side as they have struggled for form in the 2024-25 campaign. They find themselves a dismal 13th after 14 league games and will be hoping to pick up form under the Portuguese tactician.

Rio Ferdinand highlights major issue with Manchester United star

Ferdinand wants Hojlund to improve his physicality.

Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand opened up on what Red Devils striker Rasmus Hojlund needed to develop in his game. Following the side's 2-0 loss to Arsenal, Ferdinand said (via Rio Ferdinand Presents):

“Rasmus Hojlund is probably still trying to fight his way out of his pocket right now – it was like a man against a boy yesterday. I want to see Rasmus Hojlund improve in those situations, in those one-v-ones. I’m saying it about Rasmus Hojlund, but I can say the same thing about Haaland.”

“When Haaland comes up against a Van Dijk and against a Saliba, I want to see him bully the life out of them as well and I want to see him hurt them and put punches in them guys,” he added.

A difficult night for Amorim's side was compounded by Hojlund's difficult time out against the Gunners, particularly William Saliba. The lack of quality in the final third saw them restricted to just two shots on target.

The Denmark international signed for Manchester United from Atalanta last season for a fee of £72 million but has collected just 20 goals and three assists in 58 games.