Eric Bailly reportedly set for extended spell on sidelines

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly could be set for longer on the sidelines than had first been anticipated. The Ivorian picked up a groin injury in the defeat to Chelsea last month, and his absence may continue into the new year. That’s according to the Sun, who claim the 23-year-old is still likely to miss the next six to eight weeks of action.

United have a string of very winnable games coming up over the festive period, including league fixtures against Bournemouth, West Brom, Leicester City and Burnley, though Bailly will still be missed. He impressed in his debut season at Old Trafford, establishing himself as one of the top defensive talents in Europe. Though United have enough depth at the back to ensure they can cope with his absence, José Mourinho’s side certainly looks weaker without Bailly in it.

Let’s hope he’s back in time for United’s next ‘big’ game — that away at Tottenham Hotspur at the end of January.