Man Utd question multiple players over lineup leaks
- Man Utd's starting XI for Sunday's derby was leaked on the morning of the game
- Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were both left out of the squad
- Ruben Amorim not overly concerned by United's 'leaker'
Manchester United's hierarchy have questioned at least two of their own players about the numerous leaks revealing early team news, according to a report.
Ruben Amorim's side had their starting XI for Sunday's Manchester derby leaked on the day of the game at the Etihad. The news broken by Manchester Evening News reporter Samuel Luckhurst proved to be correct and was not the first time that United's lineup has been unveiled long before kick-off.
This trend has persisted under numerous managerial regimes, pointing towards a member of the playing staff.
A report from The Times states that United staff members have asked two players whether they, or any of their associates, have been responsible for leaks to the press. Both individuals quashed the suggestion of any involvement.
Despite this line of questioning, United insist that no formal investigation has been launched.
Pep Guardiola got the jump on Amorim's XI but still watched his Manchester City conspire to lose 2-1 in the dying embers of a largely drab derby. Still riding high on the back of a crucial victory following consecutive defeats, United's manager was asked about the talkative member of his team.
"I know that story," Amorim told reporters post-game. "I don't know, I think it's impossible to fix nowadays because you have a lot of people in the club, the players talk with agents.
"I don't know, you can talk with friends, so it's hard to know. It's not a good thing but let's move on and go to the next one and see if they find the next starting XI."
The biggest news from Amorim's leaked lineup regarded the players that were not involved. Both Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho were surprisingly dropped from the squad entirely. United's new head coach hinted at a drop in standards when he explained the duo's absence, but insisted that both would be considered for selection again.
The 'leaker' among United's ranks will be concerned with a trip to Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup quarter-finals on Thursday.
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