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Eric Bailly injury boost: Man United scans show Jose Mourinho claim was premature
ERIC BAILLY’S knee injury is not as bad as first feared by Jose Mourinho, according to reports.
Manchester United's Eric Bailly HOBBLES around after injury
Manchester United’s star defender has been a formidable figure since his £30m summer move from Villarreal.
But the Red Devils’ August Player of the Month appeared to add to Mourinho’s problems on Sunday.
Bailly was withdrawn in the 52nd minute of United’s 4-0 drubbing by Chelsea after challenging with Eden Hazard.
Man Ud's Bailly had started & finished every Premier League game this term before the Chelsea loss
In the aftermath to the Chelsea defeat, Mourinho said: "He's injured and I'm afraid he's badly injured. In his knee, in the ligament area, he feels it is really bad."
However, according to The Times, tests conducted by United’s medical staff have shown the blow is not massively serious.
It is suggested Bailly could be out for less than six weeks, which would see him return in December.
Eric Bailly has been a solid presence in Manchester United's side since signing
Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho endured a miserable return to former club Chelsea on Sunday
Even with the boost, the 22-year-old is expected to miss games against the likes of Arsenal, Feyenoord and West Ham, while he will certainly miss tomorrow’s EFL Cup tie with Manchester City at Old Trafford (8pm).
Chris Smalling’s fitness is being monitored after he was rushed back for the Chelsea clash, meaning Mourinho could be short of defensive options when City visit.
But Bailly’s injury time frame was feared to be far longer than what scans have shown.
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