Mourinho Comments On Herrera's Injury

Jose Mourinho admits only a "very painful" injury would force Ander Herrera off the pitch, but the Manchester United manager does not yet know if the midfielder’s problem is severe.

Herrera entered the International Champions Cup match against Real Madrid as one of eight half-time changes, yet he was off the pitch only a few minutes later following a collision close to the touchline. The Spaniard appeared to walk off holding his hip or waist, as Scott McTominay took his place.

The game ended 1-1 in normal time after goals from Jesse Lingard and Casemiro (penalty), before the Reds secured a penalty shootout victory at the eye-catching Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California.

Speaking at the post-match press conference, Mourinho was asked about Herrera’s premature exit and just how serious the injury might be. “It must at least be very painful because for Ander to come off, it has to be very painful,” the manager told reporters. “I want to wait and see what it is.

“I always say to the players that you don't risk anything in friendly matches. If you feel something is coming, even if it is a little injury, get off because the result is not important. It was very painful, it was in front of the bench, it was a bad contact. Maybe it is his ribs but I don't know.”

Juan Mata is the only other player who has suffered an injury on Tour 2017, presented by Aon, after the former Valencia and Chelsea man took a heavy kick to the ankle against Real Salt Lake in Utah.

Meanwhile, Marcos Rojo, Luke Shaw and Ashley Young - all of whom travelled with the squad to the United States - are still long-term absentees.