Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim spoke to the media ahead of Monday’s Premier League match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford (kick-off 20:00 GMT).
Here are the highlights from his press conference:
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Amorim confirmed both Harry Maguire and Matthijs de Ligt were out, with De Ligt having “something in his back” causing some pain. Meanwhile, they “have to see” whether striker Benjamin Cesc is fit again after suffering a bout of food poisoning.
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On whether Brian Mbemo, Nussel Mazraoui and Amad Diallo will be available ahead of Monday’s Africa Cup of Nations: “We are still having conversations with the national team. The game will be on Monday, they are training here and we are trying to prepare for all situations. It is frustrating but at the same time no one knows who will be playing, so it is a good thing. We have players to deal with everything.”
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He added: “I don’t know if the same thing will happen [when each player goes to Afcon]But each national team has its own idea of when it wants players. I expect a decision will be made today or tomorrow, but we will wait until the last moment to choose the best team. “
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Statistics show that the team’s results are better when Mason Mount comes on: “It’s hard to make that connection. It’s true, but it’s not just that. We have to see the way the game is played. But he’s a very, very smart player. He’s really technical because sometimes being a technical player is not just about enjoying the ball, it’s about the quality of the pass, the ball, how to receive it. He’s really smart in those areas. He can balance our team well, so he’s a very good player.”
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Amorim said Bournemouth were “a top team” but insisted “we need to win, especially at home”.
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Asked about the job opposition head coach Andoni Iraola is doing, he replied: “It’s special. The way they play the game, what he’s doing for some players, he’s improving some players and you can look at that team and they’ve got several players who can play at a high level.”
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