Marc Skinner confirms Anna Sandberg has suffered a knee injury, leaving the Reds thin at the back for the crucial FA Cup and League Cup ties against Chelsea.
Manchester United Women have been dealt a significant defensive blow following the news that Anna Sandberg is set for a spell on the sidelines. According to BBC Sport’s Simon Stone, the Swedish defender could be out for between four and eight weeks after sustaining a knee injury during last week’s European action.
The injury occurred in the 48th minute of United’s dominant 3-0 Champions League victory over Atletico Madrid in Spain. While the result put the Reds in a commanding position, the loss of Sandberg creates a tactical headache for manager Marc Skinner at a pivotal moment in the season.
“No Risks” with Sandberg’s Recovery
Speaking ahead of tonight’s second leg at Leigh Sports Village, Marc Skinner emphasized a cautious approach to the 22-year-old’s rehabilitation.
“We’re hopeful we can get it to six weeks,” Skinner told the press. “But there won’t be any risk with her. She’s a young player, so we’ll make sure she’s rehabbed effectively.”
The Race for Coverage: George vs. Lundkvist
With Sandberg out, the spotlight turns to Gabby George and Hanna Lundkvist. George replaced Sandberg in Madrid and started the recent WSL win over London City Lionesses, though she was tactically substituted at halftime for Lundkvist. Skinner must now decide who will guard the left flank for the upcoming gauntlet of fixtures.
United’s Season-Defining Month
The timing of Sandberg’s injury is particularly “untimely” given United’s schedule:
- Tonight: Champions League Last-16 (2nd Leg) vs. Atletico Madrid.
- Sunday: FA Cup 5th Round vs. Chelsea.
- March 15: League Cup Final vs. Chelsea at Ashton Gate.
Despite the injury, United enter tonight’s match on the back of a seven-game winning streak in all competitions, most recently overcoming London City Lionesses 2-1 thanks to goals from Jess Park and Millie Turner.
Ronald Mike is a football writer covering the English Premier League, providing match analysis, tactical insight, and coverage of key rivalries and title races across the season.
