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The Independent UK
The Independent UK
Sport
Jack Rathborn

Man United handed Kobbie Mainoo fitness boost for crunch clash with Chelsea

Manchester United could recall Kobbie Mainoo with Michael Carrick admitting “there is a decision to be made” ahead of the crunch clash with Chelsea this weekend.

The Red Devils travel to Stamford Bridge in third place and seven points clear of their rivals in sixth, knowing that fifth will be good enough to secure a place in next season’s Champions League.

Mainoo was absent in the defeat to Leeds on Monday, due to a knock picked up in training last week, but Carrick has shared a boost for United at a pivotal time in the season.

"Kobbie is doing little bits, he's working toward it, he's doing bits, so there's a decision to be made,” Carrick said.

While Carrick admits Ayden Heaven could be selected, given Harry Maguire and Lisandro Martinez’s suspensions.

"Ayden is in a good place,” Carrick said. “He's still young, and he's progressing through the early stages of his career, so I think it's natural for him to play some games and not some others.

“He's training really well, improving and listening. It's natural for a centre-back of his age, and he's AHEAD of schedule in terms of the games he's played.

“He trained with England a few weeks ago and did well. He's looking forward to the game, for sure.”

Patrick Dorgu will be out again though, but the Danish winger is progressing well after sustaining a hamstring injury against Arsenal in January.

"Patrick won't be [available against Chelsea],” Carrick said. “He's doing well, rehabbing well and he's kind of on track, but he's not with us in terms of training.

“He's back on the pitch, which is positive and he's doing really well.”

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