THE FUSE

The need for a new centre-back has become a priority due to a mounting availability crisis in the heart of the defence. Currently, Matthijs de Ligt remains sidelined as he continues his recovery from a persistent back injury, while Lisandro Martinez is expected to be a late arrival at Carrington following his exploits with Argentina in the World Cup final. This leaves Carrick with only veteran Harry Maguire and inexperienced youngsters Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven as his primary senior options for the upcoming fixtures.