Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho gives pessimistic injury update

Manchester United winger Alejandro Garnacho has suggested that he will be sidelined for the foreseeable future with an ankle injury.

After initially being introduced as a substitute versus Southampton on Sunday afternoon, Garnacho needed to be withdrawn after sustaining the issue in a challenge with Kyle Walker-Peters.

The youngster was later seen wearing a protective boot as he left Old Trafford, the indication being that he had sustained more than a knock.

When speaking to the media after the game, head coach Erik ten Hag said that he did not think that the injury was "too bad".

However, reports emerged on Tuesday that the issue was more severe than first anticipated, casting doubt over when the 18-year-old would next be available.

© Reuters

Garnacho, who had been due to represent Argentina for the first time during the international break, has now spoken on the injury, hinting that he will still be absent when United begin their fixtures in April.

On Instagram, Garnacho said: "It is difficult to put into words how I'm feeling right now. Unfortunately I will not be able to help my team and team-mates in the upcoming games in what is a very important part of the season for us at Manchester United.

"I am disappointed to also miss the opportunity to be with my team-mates of the Argentinian National Team in what would have been a great and proud moment for me and my family.

"This is part of football and our profession, however, I am already focused in my recovery. God has taught me to never give up and I will make sure I am back stronger than ever!".

© Reuters

Garnacho has been enjoying an excellent first full season in the senior ranks, being provided with 10 starts and 19 substitute outings in all competitions.

Four goals and four assists have come from those appearances, and United are allegedly ready to tie the prospect down to a new long-term contract.

In the short term, his absence is a blow to United who will already have to make do without Casemiro for the next four domestic matches, a result of his second sending off of the season in the game with the Saints.

However, the Brazilian is available to feature in the Europa League on Thursday as United look to defend a 4-1 advantage versus Real Betis.