Manchester United could lose three key players for a potential Europa League semi-final through suspension.
The Red Devils fell behind against Olympique Lyonnais on Thursday but battled back to lead 2-1 with moments to go.
Andre Onana dropped his latest clanger in the last kick of the game and allowed Rayan Cherki to equalise to make it 2-2 on the night.
Nonetheless, United will still feel confident of progressing to the semi-finals as they welcome the Ligue 1 side to Old Trafford on Thursday.
The Red Devils would potentially face an away match in Scotland against Glasgow Rangers or in Bilbao against Athletic Club in the first leg of the semi-final were they to beat Lyon.
However, were that to happen, as noted by the Manchester Evening News, three United players are “on the brink” of suspension.
Casemiro played the entire 90 minutes on Thursday night but did not pick up a booking. However, he still has one card from previous rounds, so will need to be careful not to get a yellow next week at Old Trafford.
In addition, his midfield partner Manuel Ugarte “was booked by Glenn Nyberg meaning he’s now on two yellow cards this season and a suspension risk.”
The Uruguay international was replaced after 72 minutes against Lyon after picking up a caution 20 minutes earlier.
Matthijs de Ligt also has two yellow cards. Having sat out the last two matches with injury, it is unclear at this stage whether the Dutchman will be fit to play a part in the game, but given his precarious position in this regard, it might be wise ti rest him even if he is fit.
The MEN point out that “the end of the last-eight is a key date in UEFA’s regulations for yellow cards as they expire once the competition narrows down to four teams.”
This means that no other United player is at risk of suspension, unless they receive a red card in the next match.
“Looking further ahead, if United reach the final in Bilbao, players can’t be suspended even if they are cautioned in both legs of the semi-final tie – the only way a player will be banned for the Europa League final is if they are sent off in the semi-final second leg or dismissed for violent conduct in the first leg.”
Featured image Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Alex Browne
Alex is a huge Manchester United fan, inspired by greats of his homeland such as George Best, Harry Gregg and Norman Whiteside. Proud owner of such niche shirts such as Kleberson, Eric Djemba-Djemba and Gary Neville. Grew up pretending to be Ruud van Nistelrooy and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer in the back garden, with little success.
