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ZLAT'S THAT

Zlatan Ibrahimovic out of Manchester United clash with CSKA Moscow… but is NOT injured

Swedish striker juggling his time between the gym and the pitch, and boss Jose Mourinho pinpoints fatigue as the problem
 

MANCHESTER UNITED fans hoping to see Zlatan Ibrahimovic start for Manchester United against CSKA Moscow will be disappointed.

But he's not still strictly injured...

 Zlatan Ibrahimovic has worked so hard to get back into first-team contention far earlier than expected
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Zlatan Ibrahimovic has worked so hard to get back into first-team contention far earlier than expectedCredit: AFP or licensors

It's more a case of fatigue as the Swedish striker continues to tackle a rigorous rehabilitation programme.

And he could be involved in next Sunday's crucial Manchester derby.

Ibrahimovic has made just four appearances as a substitute this season since his cruciate ligament operation.

But last year's top scorer was left out of the squad for Saturday’s 3-1 win over Arsenal and will not feature this week.


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Credit: Reuters

So far Jose Mourinho has restricted the Swede to four appearances off the bench

 But the charasmatic frontman could be okay for Sunday's Manchester derby
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But the charasmatic frontman could be okay for Sunday's Manchester derbyCredit: Getty Images - Getty

And boss Jose Mourinho has shed light on the 36-year-old's situation.

He said: "Zlatan needs sometimes very hard work on the muscular area that supports the knee that had the problem.


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"And when the period for that hard work comes, also the fatigue comes.

"He was on this cycle of work, divided between the gym and the pitch.

 Ibrahimovic badly hurt his knee against Anderlecht last April
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Ibrahimovic badly hurt his knee against Anderlecht last AprilCredit: EPA
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 The Swede has really pushed himself along the fitness trail
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The Swede has really pushed himself along the fitness trailCredit: Instagram

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“And he will be out again for tomorrow but I believe back to normal work after CSKA."

Initially, Ibrahimovic was expected to be out until the New Year after hurting his knee in April

But he stunned doctors by getting fit and returned against Newcastle United on November 18.

 

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