Manchester United's struggling star Henrikh Mkhitaryan 'fighting to save' Old Trafford career
Mkhitaryan was dropped from United squad to face Newcastle due to "tactical reasons".
Armenian international Henrikh Mkhitaryan is reportedly "fighting" to save his Manchester United career after a dip in form in the last few months.
The 28-year-old moved to Old Trafford from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2016. After a tough start to his life in the Premier League, the playmaker had endured a mixed campaign in his debut season.
Mkhitaryan enjoyed an impressive start to the 2017/18 season, registering five assists in first three league games. Earlier in September, Jose Mourinho had issued a warning to him, urging him to do even more against the title rivals. Since the end of August, he has scored twice and is yet to register an assist in 12 matches played in all competitions.
United registered a 4-1 win over Newcastle United and Mourinho dropped Mkhitarayn from the squad for "tactical reasons." According to the Sun, the Portuguese tactician and his backroom staff have "major reservations" over the player.
Mkhitaryan impressed Mourinho and his coaching staff after coming in on his day off to the gym to improve his fitness levels. However, his ability to handle and manage the mental and physical demands of the Premier League has raised concerns at Old Trafford. The report also claims he has shown alarming signs of fatigue.
"There are still problems with Mkhitaryan. He is battling to save his career here. There are huge reservations over him from Jose and his backroom team. He has shown an alarming sign of fatigue in recent weeks," a source was quoted as saying by the Sun.
"He could even be handed a rest after the international break after going away with Armenia. It's going to be a busy festive period. Henrikh did work hard to get into shape after the concerns last year but they seem to be coming back in a way. It's a huge issue."
His poor run in the last two months has seen him being criticised by a section of fans on social media. Mourinho started Juan Mata in his position in United's home win against Rafael Benitez's side.
