MATIC READY FOR LONG SEASON
Nemanja Matic said that he and his teammates were ready for a long season where the club is expected to compete on four fronts. He said that the squad have the capability and are well placed to fight for the Premier League as well as the Champions League while making deep runs in the domestic cup competitions. The Serbian remained tight lipped about his departure from Chelsea but revealed that his experience has helped him slot straight into the United starting lineup.
UNITED TO TRIGGER EXTENSION
Manchester United are on the verge of triggering a 12-month extension to Luke Shaw’s contract and ‘protect’ their mega investment. Shaw who has struggled with fitness and injury issues is only just returning to the side after time out because of ligament damage. Shaw also came in for public criticism from Mourinho last season but his desire to impress the boss has, well impressed Mourinho. Shaw is in line to return to the starting lineup soon and could celebrate his return with the extension.
COLEMAN WILL LET BALE LEAVE CAMP
Wales boss Chris Coleman will let Gareth Bale leave his training camp ahead of the World Cup qualifiers should United try to sign the Welshman ahead of the deadline. Bale who has fallen down the pecking order at the Bernabeu and was at the end of boos from the fans is believed to be looking for a way out of the Spanish capital. United are long term admirers and have reportedly bid close to £90m for the player.
AGENT P AT WORK?
Serge Aurier who is believed to be very close to a move to Tottenham Hotspur have reportedly been convinced by ‘good friend’ Paul Pogba to sign for United. United who showed interest in the French right back briefly were content to let Aurier join Spurs but a lack of depth and competition at right-back for Antonio Valencia could propel Mourinho to buy the PSG player. Reports have suggested that PSG and Tottenham have an agreement in place but the absence of an official announcement is helping United’s cause.
ZLATAN RETURN DATE UPDATE
October and January are the two months in which Zlatan is set to return to the field competitively. Ibrahimovic who has stunned doctors and staff at United alike with his recovery. While some reports slated him for an October return, Mourinho remained coy and said that the Swede will be back only around the New Year. But latest medical reports have indicated that the Swede could return around the festive period to give Jose a much-needed boost during one of the most crucial periods of the season.