da dobrowin： Manchester United are reportedly addressing horrendous injury record with massive upgrades after racking up over 60 separate absences this season.
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United have been unlucky with injuriesOnly three players have remained fit till nowINEOS working on a significant Carrington upgradeWHAT HAPPENED?
The team's misfortune with injuries was epitomised by the absence of their talismanic figure, Bruno Fernandes, who missed the Crystal Palace match due to injury for the first time in his professional career. Fernandes, known for his resilience and determination, has often played through discomfort to support his team, showcasing his unwavering commitment to the cause. However, his absence during the 4-0 defeat against Crystal Palace marked the 63rd separate case of injury and illness affecting United this season, a statistic that continues to baffle manager Erik ten Hag.
AdvertisementGettyTHE BIGGER PICTURE
With 25 senior squad members experiencing injuries, totalling more than 1,200 missed days collectively, the magnitude of the injury crisis at United cannot be overstated. Despite Ten Hag's efforts to field his strongest lineup, opportunities to do so have been limited, leading to frustration among fans and staff alike. It is believed that barring two games, against Wolves in the campaign opener and against West Ham in February, the manager has not been able to field his strongest possible XI throughout the 110 matches in charge.
According to theSpeculation has arisen regarding the intensity of training sessions under Ten Hag's management, particularly concerning the rehabilitation of players returning from extended lay-offs. Some sources suggest that the rigorous training regimen may contribute to re-aggravation and an increased risk of injuries, a claim Ten Hag vehemently denies, emphasising the importance of fitness at the highest level.
INEOS HAS A PLAN OF ACTION
In response to the ongoing injury woes, United have embarked on significant upgrades to their training facilities, aiming to mitigate future crises. Recent additions, such as a hyperbaric chamber and cryotherapy chambers, complement existing facilities at Carrington.
Despite these advancements, it's evident that more work is needed to bring United's facilities on par with those of their rivals. Plans to overhaul the Carrington training facility have been in place with a focus on creating a dedicated 'pre-activation and player performance' zone. This zone aims to minimise injury risks through specialised warm-up routines, incorporating resistance bands, foam rollers, dynamic mobility exercises, and stretching routines.
SPOTLIGHT ON GARY O'DRISCOLL
The scrutiny surrounding United's injury record has placed the spotlight on Gary O’Driscoll, the club's head of sports medicine. O'Driscoll, renowned for his progressive approach to sports medicine, joined United from Arsenal with a mandate to elevate the club's sports science department. His extensive experience in top-level sports, coupled with his innovative methods, has earned him respect and admiration within the dressing room.
While some attribute United's injury crisis to sheer bad luck and the demanding schedule post-COVID, O'Driscoll remains committed to implementing newer methods and fostering a modern approach to sports medicine. Collaborating with figures like physio Richard Merron and club doctor Jim Moxon, O'Driscoll is spearheading crucial rebuilding efforts aimed at restoring United to their former glory.