Manchester United gaffer Jose Mourinho has suggested that he could play United's Under-23 side in a Premier League match this season.
Although his comments were said jokingly, Mourinho frustration was evident given his side's schedule over April, where they have played a total of nine matches. With eight senior players injured, and 6 more matches – potentially 7 if they advance to the Europa League final – remaining in the season, Mourinho believes he is being pushed to the edge.
United will face Crystal Palace three days before potentially heading to Stockholm for the Europa League final on May 24th. The Red Devils success in the Europa League has become paramount of late given their struggles to cement a top four spot, which is something that may force Mourinho's hand.
"You are punished for doing well. If we beat Celta [Vigo], we have the final on the Wednesday and we play against Crystal Palace on the Sunday," said Mourinho via the Daily Star.
"Before that we play Southampton three days before and, with all respect, we would be playing in disaster consequences.
"Maybe I can bring Nicky Butt and his team to play against Crystal Palace."
The last time United intentionally fielded a depleted team was when West Ham defeated the Red Devils to avoid the drop on the final day of the season at Old Trafford.
Sir Alex Ferguson's decision to rest the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Paul Scholes and Rio Ferdinand, arguably caused Sheffield United to be relegated instead of the Hammers, and the Yorkshire club has not been in the Premier League since.
With Crystal Palace still not clear from the prospect of relegation, they will have their fingers crossed in the hope that Mourinho follows through with his quip.
Source: tribalfootball.com