Manchester United manager Marc Skinner expects Ella Toone to return from injury for the crucial WSL clash with Tottenham on Sunday.
Manchester United midfielder Ella Toone has been sidelined since the end of December due to a hip issue. The injury prevented her from featuring in United’s Women’s Champions League quarter-final run and also caused her to miss two England training camps. Her absence coincided with England’s rise to the top of their World Cup qualifying group under Sarina Wiegman.
Marc Skinner, United’s head coach, expressed optimism about Toone’s potential return for Sunday’s pivotal Women’s Super League match against Tottenham. He stated that Toone will train on Friday and hinted that she could feature this weekend. Skinner called her possible return 'fantastic' if it happens.
Skinner confirmed that Sweden defender Anna Sandberg is fit after recovering from a two-month knee injury. He also revealed that striker Ellen Wangerheim is available after missing a month due to a shin issue.
United’s recent losses, including a WSL defeat at Old Trafford to Manchester City, have intensified scrutiny on Skinner, whose contract extends to 2027. Some supporters believe the team has reached its ceiling under his leadership. The longest-serving WSL manager, Skinner acknowledged external criticism but emphasized the club’s progress.
Skinner acknowledged the scrutiny that comes with managing a high-profile club like Manchester United. He highlighted the tendency to focus on negatives but stressed the club’s historical achievements under his guidance. His immediate priority remains preparing the team for the next three WSL matches. 'You enter a job like Man Utd and of course you are open to scrutiny,' he said. 'But we also live in a world where there is a constant 'look at the negative side'. Actually, the positive side is we have created history at this club and we have to continue to do so. My job is to prepare my team for these next three games and to try and win them.'