Manchester United's Romelu Lukaku has 'no problem' after blow to head and could face Derby County
Tuesday 2 January 2018 09:18, UK
Manchester United have received a boost with Romelu Lukaku's fitness after boss Jose Mourinho confirmed there is "no problem" with the striker.
The Belgium international was stretchered off while receiving oxygen early in the goalless draw with Southampton at Old Trafford on Saturday, following a blow to the head by Wesley Hoedt.
Lukaku subsequently missed United's 2-0 win over Everton on New Year's Day as a precaution but Mourinho hinted the striker could return to the first team for the upcoming FA Cup third-round tie against Derby County.
"Romelu is not a problem, maybe Romelu can play [on Friday]," said Mourinho in his post-match press conference at Goodison Park.
"It was precaution by the doctor, who was following the rules to protect the situation, but Romelu was in the dressing room and never lost his memory, he knew what happened [against Southampton].
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"He didn't come today, to follow the protocol, but he wanted to play. We had to stop him playing because he was saying 'I feel amazing, I should go and play'.
"We had to follow the protocol and protect the player so we decided not to play him. But he will probably be back [on Friday]."
