Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has suffered relentless availability issues during a disastrous second season in charge, whether through injuries, illness or off-field matters. And a timely Premier League rule has saved him from further misery during the busy festive fixture schedule.
United have been struck with over 30 different instances of absences before the New Year, partly contributing to the miserable results that have placed Ten Hag under heavy scrutiny.
Bruno Fernandes added to the Dutchman’s frustrations after his late yellow card in the 3-0 defeat against AFC Bournemouth ruled him out of the trip to face Liverpool at Anfield earlier this month.
And Luke Shaw was on the brink of becoming the next culprit of a one-game suspension, having picked up four bookings in the first half of the season.
However, United’s thrilling 3-2 comeback against Aston Villa on Boxing Day was their 19th game of the Premier League season, officially reaching the halfway mark.
Therefore, the Red Devils’ bookings have now been reset for the second half of the campaign, chalking off currently outstanding bookings.
That includes the two Fernandes has received in both games since his return and the three accumulated by Andre Onana, Diogo Dalot, Sergio Reguilon, Sofyan Amrabat and Antony this term.
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Shaw missed Tuesday’s dramatic victory over Villa at Old Trafford through a minor injury, joining several key stars on the sidelines.
But he was most at risk of suspension, having picked up four yellow cards in his eight Premier League appearances this season.
The Premier League rule ensures Ten Hag doesn’t face losing Shaw as soon as he gets him back to fitness, though, as he prepares to welcome back a handful of big names in the New Year.
Harry Maguire, Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Casemiro and Mason Mount are currently on the injury table.
