Edinson Cavani reveals impact of Manchester United injury struggles

Manchester United's Edinson Cavani has admitted dealing with injury this season 'hasn't been easy'.

Cavani was a surprise absentee for United's match against Manchester City on Sunday afternoon. Ralf Rangnick declared Cavani fit on the day before the match, but the centre-forward was eventually ruled out of the derby due to fitness concerns.

Cavani, 35, has struggled with a groin problem all campaign and he's been forced to miss United's last six matches. The striker's absence at the Etihad means he's been unavailable through injury for 56 per cent of United's fixtures across all competitions.

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Some have questioned Cavani's injury record, but the player has now spoken out on the challenge of being sidelined. “Yes, I’ve been unfortunate to be out through injury, and for a longer period than I’m used to,” Cavani told United's in-house media.

“I’ve never been used to spending this length of time on the sidelines. It’s something that I’m finding very difficult. Something which is very tough.

“Mentally, it’s not easy either, because when you’re not used to it, it really is extremely hard to take on board what is happening and seeing your team-mates each game going out on to the pitch, either for training or to play in a match.

“And you can’t be joining them out there, it’s hard to take, and it’s really frustrating that you’re feeling like that, and it makes you a bit anxious and really keen to be wanting to be fit and ready as quickly as possible.”

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