Manchester United’s hopes of success this season will largely depend on how well Ruben Amorim can keep his senior squad fit and firing.
But the same principle applies to the club’s youth setup, with injuries capable of delaying or derailing the development of highly rated prospects eager to break into the first team.
United’s academy continues to be a vital pipeline, and for players eyeing opportunities under Amorim, maintaining fitness is just as important as showcasing talent.
One such youngster is Sekou Kone.
A 19-year-old Mali youth international who had already been trusted to join the senior squad on their pre-season tour of the United States.
Kone suffered a serious setback last week when he was stretchered off following a head collision while attempting to clear a corner against Tamworth in the National League Cup.
An incident that led to the game’s abandonment.
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It has now been confirmed via Daily Mail’s report, that the midfielder fractured his eye socket in the clash and will undergo a scan this week to determine the extent of the damage to his orbital bone.
The teenager, who did not travel with the Under-21s for their clash with Middlesbrough on Monday, is expected to be sidelined for several weeks.
However, club sources remain optimistic about his recovery.
There remains a possibility that Kone could return to action wearing a protective face mask if he feels comfortable enough to do so.
Despite this setback, United remain confident in Kone’s long-term development and view him as one of the brightest prospects in their system.
United fans will hope for Kone to return at the soonest opportunity, considering the hype already around the talent.
However, Amorim will certainly be careful of players being eased back from injuries – especially ones as serious as an eye fracture.
