Rio Ferdinand urges Michael Carrick to start Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven

Yahoo Sports1 min read • Latest: Sep 8, 2026, 9:28 AM

Last updated Sep 8, 2026

Rio Ferdinand urges Michael Carrick to start Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven
Summary

Manchester United prepares for its opening Champions League fixture against Sabah FK at Old Trafford on Thursday. Manager Michael Carrick faces defensive challenges after the club conceded two goals in each of its first three league matches this season. Rio Ferdinand has suggested that incorporating Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven into the starting lineup would provide necessary pace to the back line. The match against the Azerbaijani side serves as a potential rotation opportunity before the squad hosts Manchester City on Sunday. Carrick must also manage fitness concerns for players like Marcus Rashford while integrating squad members such as Mason Mount and Andrey Santos. De Ligt remains unavailable for selection as the team aims to establish momentum in European competition.

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Status Watch
  • Manchester United hosts Sabah FK in its first Champions League match on Thursday.
  • The club conceded two goals in each of its opening three league fixtures.
  • Rio Ferdinand advocates for the inclusion of Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven to improve defensive pace.
  • Michael Carrick prepares the team for a Manchester City derby on Sunday.
  • Mathijs De Ligt is currently unavailable due to fitness issues.
Latest Updates
  • 9:28 AMYahoo SportsRio Ferdinand Tells Michael Carrick That Not Playing Two Man Utd Stars Is A Mistake
What they're saying
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As defensive frailties plague Old Trafford, Rio Ferdinand urges Michael Carrick to inject essential pace by integrating Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven into a struggling back four.

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