Manchester United striker to miss Carabao Cup final

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: A general internal view of Old Trafford, home stadium of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League knockout round play-off leg two match between Manchester United and FC Barcelona at Old Trafford on February 23, 2023 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - FEBRUARY 23: A general internal view of Old Trafford, home stadium of Manchester United during the UEFA Europa League knockout round play-off leg two match between Manchester United and FC Barcelona at Old Trafford on February 23, 2023 in Manchester, United Kingdom. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/Getty Images)

Manchester United striker Anthony Martial is set to miss Sunday’s Carabao Cup final against Newcastle United through injury.

The Reds’ Manager Erik Ten Hag clearly communicated to the media during his Barcelona post-match press conference that the French striker will not be available for the Carabao Cup final.

Anthony Martial showed signs of renewed potential in United’s pre-season campaign but he soon fell prey to a number of injuries. This has been the story of the Frenchman throughout his career at Manchester United, whenever he showed signs of revival, injury finds him soon.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: Anthony Martial of Manchester United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Carabao Cup Semi Final 2nd Leg match between Manchester United and Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on February 1, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)
MANCHESTER, ENGLAND – FEBRUARY 01: Anthony Martial of Manchester United celebrates after scoring a goal to make it 1-0 during the Carabao Cup Semi Final 2nd Leg match between Manchester United and Nottingham Forest at Old Trafford on February 1, 2023 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Robbie Jay Barratt – AMA/Getty Images)

“No, he will not be available” – Manchester United manager

Speaking to the press, these were the exact words of manager Erik Ten Hag were asked about Martial’s availability for the weekend final clash. Despite his inconsistent run with the team, Ten Hag has always put faith in Martial whenever he has been available for selection. He has made 14 appearances this season, scoring six goals and registering two assists.

The 30-year-old couldn’t be counted on when Cristiano Ronaldo left the club because of his fitness issues and that led to the signing of Wout Weghorst who is yet to prove his presence at the club.

Apart from the French striker, United is expected to miss star man Marcus Rashford for the final. The 25-year-old Englishman has been a marquee player for The Reds this season with his 24 goals but he limped off the pitch against Barcelona. It remains uncertain whether he would feature against Newcastle United.

Harry Maguire and Casemiro have returned to the squad fully fit and free of suspensions.