Michael Carrick Provides Injury Updates on Shaw, Maguire and Martínez After United’s Palace Win

Manchester United’s comeback win over Crystal Palace did more than just deliver another crucial three points in the Premier League. It also raised fresh questions about injuries, squad depth, and how interim boss Michael Carrick plans to manage his players during a demanding run of fixtures. After the final whistle, Carrick provided reassuring updates on three key United stars, easing fears after a nervy afternoon at Old Trafford.

United were forced to dig deep once again as they overturned an early deficit to beat Palace 2–1, with Bruno Fernandes and Benjamin Šeško on the scoresheet. The result lifted Manchester United up to third in the table, underlining the impressive momentum Carrick has built since taking charge.

A comeback built on patience and control

The afternoon did not start smoothly for United. Crystal Palace looked sharper in the opening stages and were rewarded when Maxence Lacroix powered home a header from a corner to put the visitors ahead. It was a familiar issue for United, who have at times struggled to defend set pieces this season.

Matters appeared to worsen when Luke Shaw was forced off in the first half. The left-back looked visibly frustrated as he left the pitch, with Noussair Mazraoui shifting across to fill the role. Shaw’s reaction immediately sparked concern among supporters, especially given his injury history.

Despite the early setbacks, United gradually settled. They ended the first half on the front foot but could not find a way past Palace’s defence. Carrick’s influence was more evident after the break, as United returned with greater intensity and clearer structure in possession.

Turning point changes the game

The match swung decisively in United’s favour when Matheus Cunha was brought down in the box by Lacroix. The Palace defender was shown a red card, leaving the visitors a man short and handing United a golden opportunity to level the score.

Fernandes made no mistake from the penalty spot, calmly sending the goalkeeper the wrong way. From that moment on, United took control, using the extra man intelligently rather than rushing their play.

The winning goal was a moment that summed up United’s growing confidence. Fernandes picked out Šeško with a perfectly weighted pass, and the young striker finished clinically to continue his fine form in 2026. It was Šeško’s first league start under Carrick, and he repaid that trust in the best possible way.

Carrick plays down injury fears

While the result was encouraging, attention quickly turned to United’s injury situation. Shaw’s early exit was followed by another worrying moment late in the game, when Harry Maguire was substituted with just minutes remaining. Maguire headed straight down the tunnel alongside the medical staff, raising fears of another defensive absence.

Speaking to the BBC after the match, Carrick was keen to calm those concerns. He explained that neither situation appeared serious and suggested the changes were precautionary rather than forced by major injuries.

“They just weren’t feeling too well, so hopefully they will be feeling better soon,” Carrick said, offering a far more positive outlook than many had expected.

That reassurance will be welcome news for United fans, particularly with a demanding schedule ahead.

Martínez edging closer to return

Carrick also provided an update on Lisandro Martínez, who has missed the last two matches with a calf problem. The Argentine has been a key figure in United’s recent rise, bringing aggression, composure, and leadership at the back.

Ahead of the upcoming trip to Newcastle United, Carrick admitted there is still no exact return date for Martínez, but stressed that he is not far away.

“We will have to wait and see. He’s close, he’s not far away. It’s hard to say at the moment,” Carrick told Sky Sports.

With Newcastle known for their physical approach at St James’ Park, Martínez’s presence would be a significant boost. His ability to step out from defence and break opposition lines has been crucial to United’s improved performances.

Momentum building at the right time

United’s victory over Palace was not just about goals or league position. It was another sign of a squad growing in belief under Carrick. The calm handling of injuries, the effective use of substitutions, and the managed integration of players like Šeško all point towards a team being guided with clarity and confidence.

As United prepare for a tough away trip to Newcastle, Carrick will hope his positive injury updates hold true. If Shaw, Maguire, and Martínez can return sooner rather than later, United’s push near the top of the table could become even more convincing.

For now, though, Carrick and his players can reflect on a comeback that showcased resilience, smart decision-making, and a growing sense that this side is moving in the right direction at a crucial stage of the season.