Ole Gunnar Solskjaer says Timothy Fosu-Mensah has waited patiently for his opportunity at Manchester United and insists the defender is ‘ready’ to take on Crystal Palace as he returns to the side for the first time in over three years at Selhurst Park.
The 22-year-old last made an appearance for the Red Devils way back in May 2017 and spent a season on loan at Palace before being sent to Fulham for the 2018/19 campaign.
A serious knee injury saw Fosu-Mensah return to Old Trafford last April and the versatile Netherlands international has been working hard on his fitness, turning out for United’s reserves over the last few weeks.
Luke Shaw has been a mainstay in Solskjaer’s side during their 18-match unbeaten run but the Englishman came off with a foot problem against Southampton, opening up a chance for Fosu-Mensah at left-back.
Speaking to BT Sport ahead of Thursday night’s Premier League clash, Solskjaer explained: ‘Timothy has been waiting for his chance.
‘He played a couple of reserve games. He’ll be ready.’
Shaw was hopeful of being able to feature at Palace but Solskjaer has been cautious with the full-back’s injury.
Fellow left-back Brandon Williams is also absent in south London after the sickening facial injury he suffered versus the Saints.
United have Diogo Dalot and Eric Bailly as potential defensive options off the bench at Selhurst Park.
Scott McTominay comes in for Nemanja Matic in central midfield in the only other change for the visitors.
On the challenge awaiting United at Palace, Solskjaer added: ‘We know what we have to do.
‘We have to come here and be on the front foot and start positive.
‘Of course, that’s what you want to see from the beginning of the game.’
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