Why Mykhailo Mudryk is unlikely to start despite improving form | OneFootball

Mauricio Pochettino’s press conference ahead of tomorrow’s trip to Luton was filmed after the game against Crystal Palace two days ago, and had bad injury news all around.

Christopher Nkunku made it through his first start without an issue, but Romeo Lavia hurt himself even as a sub, and Pochettino revealed that Mykhailo Mudryk, who was subbed off in the second half after a brutal challenge, had also picked up a knock.

Pochettino said the Ukraine winger would be assessed, but as it stand we think it’s very unlikely he starts tomorrow, even if fit.

Cole Palmer and Raheem Sterling were suspended against Palace, and so will return fresh tomorrow to play out wide. Nicolas Jackson can lead the line. Assuming Moises Caicedo and Conor Gallagher are also ready to start, it leaves one spot, which could see Armando Broja joining Jackson up top in a 2, or perhaps Ian Maatsen staying wide and Cole Palmer playing centrally.

Either way, this is a good time to rest Mudryk, especially if he’s hurt. If Pochettino picks him from the start, it will only be due to a lack of other options.