Cavani opens up on injury frustrations

The Uruguayan hasn’t featured for the Reds since the 1-1 draw at Burnley on 8 February, missing each of the six games following that trip to Turf Moor.

Cavani, who turned 35 last month, has been suffering with a thigh issue and he admits it has been difficult having to watch his team-mates, rather than playing alongside them.

“Yes, I’ve been unfortunate to be out through injury, and for a longer period than I’m used to,” Edi told us during an interview conducted earlier this week.

“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.”

During his pre-match press conference on Friday, Ralf Rangnick explained that Cavani and fellow striker Cristiano Ronaldo have both returned to training and should be available for Saturday’s Premier League match against Tottenham at Old Trafford, which kicks off at 17:30 GMT.

When we spoke to him earlier in the week, Edinson was hopeful of being involved and he is looking forward to playing a part in the remaining two months of the season, with the huge Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid on the horizon next Tuesday.

“Right now, I think we are in the final stage of recovery from this last injury that I’ve been hit with,” he added.

“I hope I can be ready very soon, maybe even for the Tottenham game, and then continue to be a part of everything that’s ahead of us.”

Cavani has scored on each of his two previous United appearances against Spurs, including during the 3-0 victory in the reverse fixture back in October.

Edi found the net in north London behind closed doors last April too, as the Reds recovered from 1-0 down to win 3-1.