Gary Neville rejects popular Man United 'excuse' ahead of Premier League season
Former Manchester United captain Gary Neville has insisted that injuries cannot be used as an excuse this season despite a torrid run of luck in the treatment room this summer.
Last season was disastrous for United in terms of injuries with veteran centre-back Jonny Evans forced to cover in defence more often than anyone would have liked. The hope was that this year United would turn a corner on injuries but that has not been the case to date.
New signing Leny Yoro was forced off during pre-season against Arsenal and will be out for months. Meanwhile, Rasmus Hojlund has missed the start of the campaign as have Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia and Victor Lindelof.
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While many fans will have sympathy for the injury issues at the club, Neville has dismissed these concerns as nothing more than an excuse. Speaking during co-commentary at Old Trafford for the clash with Fulham, he explained: "Still getting injuries at full-back aren't they?
"It's something that can't be used as an excuse this season. If they keep getting injuries again then you must say there is something structurally wrong whether it's bringing the players in or they're doing something in training that's stressing them too much or under-training.
"I'm not sure. They can't hide behind that anymore."
United began their Premier League season at Old Trafford on Friday evening with the visit of Fulham. The Reds are set to have their sqaud stretched to the limits again this campaign as they compete not only domestically in the top flight, FA Cup and Carabao Cup but also in the Europa League.