Huge blow for Man Utd as Eriksen ruled out for at least three months with ankle injury after shocking Andy Carroll tackle

• Danish midfielder forced off against Reading
• Undergoing further medical tests
• Will not be seen again until April or May

WHAT HAPPENED? The Denmark international was forced from the field after being caught by a late challenge from Reading striker Andy Carroll during a 3-1 FA Cup win for the Red Devils over the Royals. Eriksen is now set to miss a number of important fixtures in the Premier League, Carabao Cup and Europa League as he nurses his way back to full health.

WHAT THEY SAID: United have said in a statement on the club’s official website: “While investigations are continuing, initial assessments indicate that Eriksen is likely to be out until late April or early May. The 30-year-old's absence will be a big disappointment to manager Erik ten Hag and fans, given the consistency of his performances throughout the season so far, making 31 appearances since arriving at Old Trafford. However, there is hope that Christian can return in time to play a role in the final stages of the campaign.”

THE BIGGER PICTURE: Eriksen, who has overcome the serious health scare he suffered at Euro 2020 to grace elite competition once more, joined United as a free agent in the summer of 2022 and has registered two goals and nine assists for the Red Devils through 31 appearances.

IN THREE PHOTOS:

(C)Getty Images

Getty

Getty Images

WHAT NEXT? United have the second leg of a Carabao Cup semi-final clash with Nottingham Forest to come on Wednesday, while Ten Hag’s side will face the likes of Leeds, Barcelona, Liverpool, Newcastle and Chelsea across multiple competitions before the end of April.