It’s Lindelof and on... as Jose rotates

IT’S doubtful whether Victor Lindelof has ever heard the song Is Vic There? from 1980s one-hit wonders Department S. But the obscure song title sums up the defender’s time at Manchester United since joining from Benfica for £30million in the summer. Because Lindelof has become something of a forgotten man since making the move – an ever-present in United’s Champions League fixtures, but overlooked by Jose Mourinho when it comes to the Premier League. This season, Lindelof has played just one minute in the Premier League, coming on to run down the clock in United’s insipid 0-0 draw at arch-rivals Liverpool last weekend. But he has started all three of United’s group games in Europe, hoping to do enough to convince Mourinho he also merits a start away to Huddersfield on Saturday, with Phil Jones missing this game through injury. Lindelof acquitted himself well here, overcoming a shaky start when he conceded a needless free-kick, which put United under undue pressure, to recover and play with composure and authority. “The emotions are always present when you come back home, but there is no pressure,” said Mourinho, on Lindelof facing his old club. “Jones is injured, so is Eric Bailly and Marcos Rojo isn’t ready. Let him play, he has been doing quite well in the Champions League. I trust him, he’s a good player.” Actions speak louder than words, however. And Mourinho’s level of trust in Lindelof will become apparent if the Sweden defender finds himself put in cold storage again on Saturday when the Premier League comes around again.