Michael Carrick's dream partnership is on hold as Manchester United forced into change

Carlos Baleba suffered a hamstring injury in the second half against Roma after just 31 minutes alongside Kobbie Mainoo, forcing Manchester United to reshuffle midfield plans.

Manchester United manager Michael Carrick was finally able to field his preferred midfield partnership of Kobbie Mainoo and Carlos Baleba against Roma on Tuesday, but the experiment lasted just one half. Early in the second period, Baleba powered through the Roma defence before his hamstring gave way, forcing him off the pitch. The 22-year-old midfielder, signed for £70million in the summer, has endured a frustrating season with injuries. He didn't make his United debut until October 10 after an ankle injury in pre-season, and this latest setback comes after he and Mainoo managed only 31 minutes together against Tottenham before Mainoo's own injury.

Carrick brought on Youri Tielemans as Baleba's replacement, and the Belgian impressed with a solid performance that helped United control the game. Carrick praised Tielemans' character and impact, suggesting the 29-year-old could benefit from the opportunity after a difficult start at Old Trafford. With Baleba now facing fears of a serious hamstring injury, Carrick looks set to return to a midfield pairing of Mainoo and Tielemans for the weekend visit of his former club, though questions remain about whether that partnership can provide the control and physicality the manager seeks.