Ayden Heaven’s injury is not serious, and he could return after the break, boosting Manchester United’s defensive options.
Manchester United have received a welcome injury boost with the news that rising star Ayden Heaven’s setback is not as serious as initially feared raising hopes he could return to action shortly after the international break.
The 18-year-old centre-back, who was forced off early in the second half during United’s 2-0 win over Leicester City last weekend, sparked concern after he was seen leaving the King Power Stadium in a protective boot.
PAY ATTENTION: Stay updated with the Latest Athletics News in Kenya from Pulse Sports.
Harambee Stars will shift focus to their World Cup qualifier against Gabon in Nairobi on Sunday and here is everything you need to know about the must-win clash.
However, early fears of a significant layoff have now eased following positive developments in his recovery.
Heaven provides timely boost to Manchester United’s injury-hit defence
Heaven took to Instagram earlier this week to reassure supporters, saying: “Thank you guys for all the support! I have read all your messages, and I’m doing really well and recovering fast.”
The Manchester Evening News understands that the teenager is now out of his protective boot and walking unaided. He has a chance of resuming full training following the international break, potentially putting him in contention for United’s next fixture against Nottingham Forest on Tuesday, April 1.
Heaven has enjoyed a breakthrough spell at Old Trafford, making four appearances for the senior side since his arrival from Arsenal in January.
)
Harambee Stars coach Benni McCarthy still has hopes of clinching a World Cup place despite a draw away to the Gambia as he looks to freshen up the team for Gabon on Sunday.
After being handed his full debut in a Europa League clash against Real Sociedad, the defender followed it up with another composed display against Leicester before injury struck.
Ruben Amorim praises young defender’s composure and focus
United boss Ruben Amorim has been impressed with Heaven’s maturity and composure at the back, especially amid an ongoing defensive injury crisis.
)
Premier League Ayden Heaven of Manchester United receives treatment during the Premier League match between Leicester City and Manchester United at the King Power Stadium in Leicester,
With Lisandro Martinez, Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro, Luke Shaw and Jonny Evans all sidelined, Heaven has seized his opportunity to shine.
“Yeah, he already did that [showed promise] against Arsenal and today, and against Real Sociedad,” Amorim said after the Leicester match.
“Today was for me the most difficult game for him, because he plays so well against Real Sociedad, and we expect always for these young kids to relax a little bit. But he was so focused and he played quite well, so let’s hope for the best.”
)
Harambee Stars scored a last-minute goal to secure a thrilling 3-3 draw with The Gambia and after the stalemate, they have it all to do to claim a first-ever World Cup ticket.
Heaven’s rapid rise has been one of the few positives in what has otherwise been a challenging campaign for the Red Devils.
Signed for an undisclosed compensation fee believed to be worth over £1million, the teenager penned a four-and-a-half-year deal with the club and was immediately viewed as a first-team option.
Despite having only one senior appearance for Arsenal—a Carabao Cup outing against Preston North End—Heaven has quickly established himself as a reliable figure in Amorim’s defensive line.
His intelligent positioning, calmness on the ball, and physical presence have helped him stand out, even among a squad stacked with seasoned internationals.
)
Harambee Stars fought hard in a tense Group F match staging a strong comeback but ultimately settling for a dramatic draw.
Europa League clash looms as United eye strong finish
United currently sit 13th in the Premier League with nine matches remaining, and their hopes of salvaging the season rest heavily on a strong run in the Europa League.
)
Manchester United defender Ayden Heaven (26)
A quarter-final clash against French side Lyon next month presents a realistic opportunity to secure silverware and a route back into European football next season.
Should Heaven return to fitness in time, he could play a pivotal role in United’s final push, both domestically and in Europe.
