De Ligt's return may be delayed until late March! Doku aims for early comeback, which brings both pros and cons for Manchester United.

Manchester United currently have four injured players: Lisandro Martínez, Mason Mount, Matthijs de Ligt, and Patrick Doku. According to British media, Martínez and Mount might return for Sunday's Premier League home match against Crystal Palace, but are more likely to come back for the away game at Newcastle United. As for De Ligt and Doku, they may have to wait until the end of March.

Among them, the 26-year-old De Ligt was injured as early as the away match against Crystal Palace in late November. At that time, manager Ruben Amorim predicted he would only miss one game, but unexpectedly, it has dragged on for nearly three months! De Ligt's back injury has experienced several setbacks, and he is now expected to return only in late March.

Fortunately, the 32-year-old veteran Harry Maguire, who shares a similar playing style, has been solid since his return, securing the starting center-back spot and almost making people forget about the injured De Ligt. After Martínez's injury, Lenny Yoro took his place and helped the team keep a clean sheet against Everton. Another 19-year-old talent, Eden Haven, has only been able to come on in the final moments under Carrick to help defend. Therefore, the team currently does not miss De Ligt.

Similarly, Doku, who suffered an unfortunate injury after scoring consecutive world-class goals, has gradually faded from fans' attention. The 21-year-old left-back, who was repositioned as a left winger by Carrick, earned nicknames like "Manchester United's Gareth Bale" and "Danish Gullit." However, United seem to function well without Doku, with Brazilian forward Cunha filling the left flank.

For Denmark's World Cup qualifying playoff in the European zone, Doku might be more crucial. Statistics show he scored 2 goals in 5 World Cup qualifiers for the "Danish Dynamite." National team coach Brian Riemer confirmed that Doku is pushing for an early return from injury.

Doku suffered a hamstring strain shortly after scoring against Arsenal, with initial diagnosis indicating a fairly serious issue that would keep him out for at least two months. For Manchester United, an early comeback is unlikely; the earliest he could feature is the Premier League match against Leeds United on April 11.

However, Coach Riemer hopes Doku can return earlier to participate in Denmark's World Cup playoff. Denmark will host North Macedonia in Copenhagen on March 26; if they advance, they will then face the winner of Ireland vs. Czech Republic for a spot in this summer's World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Coach Riemer explained: "Manchester United reported that he is currently injured and won't return until April. But I know Patrick (Doku) has always dreamed of recovering in time to play for his country. I believe his biggest motivation now is to push himself in the training room, trying to exceed our expectations and prepare for the matches. As long as there's a chance, I will help him pursue this dream."

Recently released videos show Doku working on strength training in the gym with United's coaches, maintaining fitness in various areas. His hamstring still cannot handle intense activities such as sprinting, sharp turns, sudden stops, and physical duels—actions unavoidable in football matches.

For Manchester United, Doku's early return could have both advantages and drawbacks. Playing for the national team could help him regain match fitness, potentially contributing more to Carrick's side during the Premier League top-four race. However, rushing back carries the risk of a setback in his recovery. For the player, the allure of competing in the World Cup is immense, and he certainly wouldn't want to miss the opportunity.