Ayden Heaven should get different role at Man United as new opportunity emerges

Heaven could get a chance at centre-back after Lisandro Martinez's red card against Chelsea, with Carrick's defensive options limited.

Ayden Heaven has an opportunity to break into Manchester United's starting XI following Lisandro Martinez's suspension after his red card against Chelsea. With Luke Shaw unavailable and Leny Yoro deployed out of position at right-back, the 20-year-old centre-back has been waiting for his chance to partner Harry Maguire. Carrick's options are limited, with Matthijs de Ligt only recently back from injury, giving Heaven's match sharpness an edge in the pecking order. The article notes Heaven's quality, highlighting his top 27.8 per cent duel success rate among Premier League centre-backs and his recovery work rate, which ranks in the top 12.5 per cent. Consistent game time will be crucial for Heaven to develop the partnership understanding needed at the position.