Rangnick: Cavani knows if his body is ready
Ralf Rangnick has provided further detail on the injury that will keep Edinson Cavani out of Manchester United's Premier League game against Brighton.
The Uruguayan picked up a groin injury in training last Friday, and received treatment throughout the hours leading up to the Southampton game on Saturday, but couldn't make the squad.
The interim manager described Edi's problem as a minor muscle injury, but said that it was pointless to risk players when a scan revealed an issue.
Part two of Ralf's press conference: Brighton Video
Part two of Ralf's press conference: Brighton
See how Rangnick answered questions on Maguire and Sancho, plus Hasenhuttl's 'reverse gear' comments...
“It is always sad if you have players unavailable, no matter if it is Edinson or another,” began Ralf.
“If they are injured, they are injured. If a player says he is not available because he is injured and we do a scan, and realise there is an injury, even if it is a minor muscle injury, if the player says he cannot fully sprint it makes no sense to have them in the squad.”
Cavani, who turned 35 today (Monday), has endured an injury-affected season in which he has scored two goals in 15 appearances.
But Rangnick admitted it was wise to be patient with such an experienced and dangerous player, given the important challenges ahead for United.
“Yes, I would have loved to have him in the squad and maybe brought him onto the pitch in the second half against Southampton, but it was not possible.
“If it is frustrating or not, it would have been good to have him available. But in the end, he’s old enough – by the way its Edinson’s birthday today – I think he is old enough to know if his body is ready in order to play or not.”
El Matador will now work towards full fitness ahead of the spicy trip to Leeds United on Sunday (20 February) and the Champions League last-16 first leg against Atletico Madrid next Wednesday (23 February).
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