Carrick Calms Mazraoui Worries and Hails Mainoo Magic Ahead of Bournemouth Battle

Picture this: you're nursing a pint, scrolling United news, and suddenly Noussair Mazraoui skips training. Hearts sink, right? But fear not, Reds – caretaker boss Michael Carrick has swooped in with the good oil ahead of Friday's clash with Bournemouth.

As covered by The Peoples Person, both Mazraoui and Lisandro Martinez missed sessions earlier this week. Martinez's calf knock has sidelined him for four games already, but Mazraoui had shaken off a niggle from the Newcastle game to feature against Aston Villa on Sunday. Turns out, it was just a spot of feeling under the weather – nothing a bit of rest won't fix.

Carrick confirmed the Moroccan full-back should be back in contention, calling him "fantastic" in the past. Proper relief that, especially with the festive fixture pile-up looming.

Injury Round-Up and Returnees

It's not all smooth sailing, mind. Matthijs de Ligt (or 'Matta' as Carrick slipped in) is still battling a stubborn back problem, frustrating everyone involved. The gaffer reckons they'll push hard to get him fit, but no timescale yet.

Lisandro Martinez is inching closer, potentially after this Bournemouth jaunt, while some lad called Dorgu lags a bit further behind. On brighter notes, Mason Mount is back in the mix post-injury. Carrick's cautious though – no starting berth yet, as he needs more minutes. "Brilliant to have him around," said the interim chief, eyeing the upcoming break as perfect timing for the Englishman to build up.

Stars Shining Bright

Now, let's talk Kobbie Mainoo. The kid's been a revelation since Carrick took the reins from Ruben Amorim. The 44-year-old boss insists we ain't seen the half of it yet. "So much more to come," he grinned, praising how the youngster hit the ground running after a spell out, bossing spells of control and defensive grit in the 3-1 Villa win.

Luke Shaw and Harry Maguire have also caught the eye, putting themselves in the shop window for England duty under Tuchel. Carrick hasn't chatted with the Three Lions gaffer, but reckons their form screams selection – for the Nations League and beyond.

And who could forget Bruno Fernandes? The skipper tore Villa apart last weekend, fuelling PFA Player of the Year chatter. Carrick's chuffed: "He's having a fantastic season, love seeing him in those talks." It's a nod to United's upward trajectory, whatever awards may come.

Bournemouth: No Pushover

Friday's Bournemouth trip at 20:00 GMT won't be a stroll in the park. The Cherries are flying, well-drilled with bags of energy. Carrick's under no illusions: "Tough place to go, they're on a good run."

United head there off the back of solid form, lads in good nick. But expect a scrap – Carrick's crew knows it'll be full-on. With Mazraoui likely available and stars like Mainoo and Bruno firing, the Reds fancy their chances to keep the momentum rolling.

Grab your scarf, it's game on at the Vitality. COYR!