90min

Alex Telles doubtful for Manchester United Premier League opener

By Ross Jackson

Alex Telles is a doubt for the start of the Premier League season
Alex Telles is a doubt for the start of the Premier League season / Marc Atkins/Getty Images
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Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has confirmed Alex Telles has suffered an ankle injury and will subsequently be sidelined for 'a few weeks'.

The Brazilian left-back has struggled to make a name for himself at Old Trafford since arriving in England last October, with Luke Shaw's fine form limiting him to just nine Premier League appearances in his maiden campaign at the club.

With Shaw yet to return to club duty following England's Euro 2020 campaign, Telles was set to be handed the chance to impress in United's upcoming pre-season clashes. However, he'll now be denied the opportunity after Solskjaer confirmed he'd picked up a knock in training.

Alex Telles, Sone Aluko
Telles featured in United's pre-season friendly against Derby / Marc Atkins/Getty Images

The Red Devils boss stopped short of putting an exact timeframe on the Brazilian's lay-off, but it looks as though his participation in United's Premier League opener against Leeds on 14 August could be in doubt.

“Unfortunately, Alex slipped and he twisted his ankle so he’ll be out for a few weeks," he told United's official website. "We’re hoping that it’s not going to be too bad but he’ll be out for a little while.”

Telles will undergo further tests as United medical team look to gauge how long his recovery time will take, but for now he looks like being absent for his side's pre-season clashes with Brentford, Preston and Everton.

While Shaw is of course expected to be United's first-choice left-back again next season - assuming he recovers from the rib injury he played through Euro 2020 with, that is - Telles' knock could open the door for youngster Brandon Williams to be afforded some more game time.

The 20-year-old was limited to just four Premier League appearances last campaign, playing just seven minutes of league football until May, with some questioning why he wasn't sent out on loan.

Southampton have emerged as potential suitors for Williams over the past few weeks, though his future may well depend on the severity of Telles' injury and whether United can subsequently afford to let him leave.

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