Manchester United have been handed a welcome injury boost ahead of the Europa League final, with striker Joshua Zirkzee insisting he could return in time to feature.
Zirkzee suffered a hamstring injury during last month’s loss to Newcastle United, and head coach Ruben Amorim quickly declared the Dutch forward’s season was over due to the injury.
He has missed the last six games in all competitions, including both legs of the Europa League semi-final against Athletic Club, from which United won to secure their spot in the May 21 final against Tottenham Hotspur.
Zirkzee acknowledged he has set his sights on making it back in time for the final in a phone conversation with former Bayern Munich teammate Alphonso Davies, who recorded the exchange online.
“I’m trying to be back for the final,” the striker said. “We’ll see what’s possible but it’s going to be difficult.”
United will greatly benefit from Zirkzee’s comeback as they look to salvage their season by winning the trophy and guaranteeing a Champions League berth the following year.
Right now, Rasmus Hojlund is the lone senior striker for United. In Zirkzee’s absence, 17-year-old Chido Obi has had many opportunities as Amorim looks to safeguard his starting lineup for their trip to Europe.
Zirkzee would also have a chance to play in United’s season-ending match if he returned for the Europa League final. Four days after the final, on the last day of the Premier League season, Aston Villa makes a visit to Old Trafford.
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