Edinson Cavani and Tom Heaton have been ruled out of Manchester United’s match against Leeds on Sunday.
The two teams will clash in front of a sold-out crowd in Yorkshire for the first time since Leeds’ promotion back to the top flight, with Marcelo Bielsa’s side fighting for survival.
They are now 15th in the Premier League, six points above the relegation zone, but have a terrible run of fixtures ahead of them. So the news that Uruguayan striker Cavani will be absent [Man Utd website] is a huge plus for the Whites.
Cavani has been a frequent starter for Ralf Rangnick this season when he’s been available, but he’s been plagued by injuries.
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It means Leeds can now prepare for Cristiano Ronaldo to start as the lone striker, making their preparations for a big game a little bit easier.
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Cavani is widely regarded as one of the best goal scorers of his generation, therefore his absence will only benefit Leeds.
Even when he hasn’t started, he has shown a proclivity to impact games from the bench, as evidenced by his assist in the 95th minute of the team’s recent triumph over West Ham.
Leeds prefers to play a high-intensity pressing style, and without his persistent running from attack, they are less likely to be pressured.
It also means that, with United having played in midweek, Rangnick will have a more difficult time rotating the team, which might work in the Whites’ favor.
Bielsa understands that the crowd will have a significant impact on the game, but any additional boosts in terms of team news will be very appreciated.
