EPL: Amorim confirms Cunha fit to return against West Ham

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Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has confirmed a mixed injury update ahead of Thursday’s Premier League clash with West Ham.

United received a boost with striker Matheus Cunha cleared to return after missing two matches due to a head injury.

The Brazilian’s absence was felt, particularly in the defeat to 10-man Everton, where his creativity would have added value in the final third.

Cunha fit, but Maguire and Sesko still out

While Cunha is available, Amorim stated that defender Harry Maguire and forward Benjamin Sesko remain sidelined.

He also flagged concerns over two unnamed players whose availability could impact his matchday selection.

United sources clarified that Amorim was joking when referencing the social-media criticism Cunha had faced over his lack of goals.

However, the manager was earnest about the psychological pressure the forward has been carrying.

Cunha has scored just once – against Brighton, in 15 appearances for club and country since arriving from Wolves in a £62.5m deal.

“He was thinking too much about the numbers”

Amorim emphasised that while the 25-year-old has adapted well to the expectations at Old Trafford, the weight of not scoring consistently had affected his performance mindset.

“He has more levels to go,” Amorim said. “He is at a different club with different pressure, but I think he copes with that well.

“He was struggling because he was not scoring and he was thinking too much about the numbers.

“The influence he has in the team is so important, but I think Cunha has so much to grow defensively and offensively.”

United face West Ham looking to regain form after an inconsistent run, with Amorim hoping Cunha’s return provides a much-needed attacking boost.