Advantage for Carrick: 7 G/A Leeds talisman suffers injury blow ahead of Man United clash

Manchester United have received an early advantage ahead of their clash with arch-rivals Leeds United on April 13.

The two teams will return to Premier League action next week after the conclusion of the March international break and the FA Cup games last weekend.

Leeds have been dealt a significant injury setback just days before the crucial clash at Old Trafford.

The Whites produced a thrilling display against West Ham United on Sunday, securing their place in the FA Cup semi-finals.

The contest ended 2-2 after normal time, with Leeds holding their nerve to progress via a dramatic penalty shootout.

The only disappointment for Leeds was the injury to their talisman Antony Stach.

Stach picked up the injury in the first half after being on the receiving end of a heavy challenge from West Ham centre-back Max Kilman.

After being played in on goal by Noah Okafor, the German star fired a first-time shot that was superbly saved by the goalkeeper.

In a desperate attempt to block the shot, Kilman caught Stach late, with the midfielder appearing to suffer a serious impact to his ankle.

The 27-year-old received treatment on the pitch and initially tried to continue, but was ultimately forced off shortly after.

The injury now casts serious doubt over his availability for the trip to the Theatre of Dreams.

Stach has been a standout performer for Leeds this season, contributing four goals and three assists in 26 Premier League appearances.

He is primarily a defensive midfielder but has occasionally operated in an attacking role this campaign.

Leeds currently sit just four points above the relegation zone, leaving them with little margin for error in the closing weeks.

They will need a strong finish to secure their Premier League status for next season.

United head coach Michael Carrick will hope that his players can win three points next Monday.

The Red Devils remain well placed in the race for UEFA Champions League qualification and cannot afford any slip-ups at this stage of the campaign.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com

Article written by Sanidhya Bhardwaj .