Erik ten Hag cited an unprecedented injury crisis as one of the major reasons behind United’s torrid campaign.
Almost every member of what would be regarded as his ideal starting XI suffered a significant period on the sidelines as the Red Devils endured a torrid campaign which saw them finish in their lowest ever position in the Premier League and with a negative goal difference.
A review into the scale of the club’s injury problems is already underway and will be headed up by Gary O’Driscoll, Arsenal’s former head of medical services, Gary O’Driscoll, who joined United last year.
According the Mirror, Reece has played a key role during his time with the Gunners and helped nurse the likes of Gabriel Jesus back to full fitness following his knee operation.
In contrast to United, Arsenal’s key personnel were able to avoid serious injury last term with William Saliba becoming the first player since Lee Dixon, 34 years ago, to play every minute of a top flight season.
The likes of Martin Odegaard, Kai Havertz, Declan Rice and Ben White also showed remarkable durability as Arteta’s side came to within two points of snatching the title from Manchester City.
Jordan Reece has worked with the likes of Declan Rice during his time at Arsenal
Jordan Reece has worked with the likes of Declan Rice during his time at Arsenal
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United’s season did, at least, end with a significant silver lining in the shape of the FA Cup, but on the eve of the final Ten Hag admitted that the spate of injuries cost him a chance of meeting his key objectives.
He said: ‘The injuries have been really crazy. Not long ago I had to start my 15th different centre back duo of the season. I have had 33 different defensive lines this season!’ said Ten Hag.
‘Sofyan Amrabat had to play left back 4 times. We have had injuries all over the pitch. Casemiro has been out for a long time. Rasmus Hojlund, the striker we bought, suffered from three injuries and I can keep going on and on. This is the core story of our season.
‘Tyrell Malacia didn’t play a single minute of football this season. In fact, he didn’t even spend a single moment out on the training pitch. We signed him as our back-up for Luke Shaw.
‘Luke Shaw is the best left back in the world. This guy is so good. But he has suffered a horrible injury at the start of his career and because of this he will never be able to play 60 games per season.’
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