Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has added an element of mystery to his team selection for Thursday's Premier League clash against West Ham, revealing that two players are doubtful for the match but refusing to disclose their identities. The game at Old Trafford is crucial for United, who are looking to build momentum after a somewhat inconsistent run of form.
Amorim addressed the media on Wednesday, providing an update on the team's fitness. While he confirmed the return of Matheus Cunha to the squad after a two-match absence, he remained tight-lipped about the two unnamed players who are now injury doubts. Cunha had been sidelined due to a training ground incident. Harry Maguire and Benjamin Sesko remain unavailable due to their respective injuries. Both players sustained injuries in the 2-2 draw against Tottenham before the international break in November.
When pressed for information on the doubtful players, Amorim stated that revealing their names would also reveal his tactical approach for the game, indicating their potential importance to his plans. "We have two doubts for the game. I will not tell you today because it will change you the way we are going to approach so let's see if they can play tomorrow," Amorim said. He did, however, confirm that the rest of the squad is fit and available for selection.
The return of Matheus Cunha is a welcome boost for Manchester United. Amorim believes the Brazilian forward has more to offer the team, stating, "He has more levels to go. He's at a different club, different pressure, he was struggling because he was not scoring, he was thinking too much about the numbers but the influence he has in the team is important to us". Cunha has scored only one goal in 11 appearances for United since his summer move.
Manchester United will be aiming to avenge their defeats against West Ham last season, where they lost both Premier League encounters. Amorim's side secured a 2-1 victory against Crystal Palace on Sunday. Amorim has urged defender Leny Yoro to put his frustration behind him after the player conceded a penalty in the win against Crystal Palace.
West Ham will be without Lucas Paqueta for the game. Amorim expressed confidence in his countryman Nuno Espirito Santo, who recently took over as West Ham manager.
