Reason why Man Utd's U21 match abandoned before half-time after sickening injury

A youth game involving Manchester United was abandoned in the first half following a horrific injury to midfielder Sekou Kone.

Kone, who signed for United from Malian side Guidars FC just under a year ago, has received comparisons to Manchester City legend Yaya Toure and there was talk of him being fast-tracked into the first-team squad last season.

Kone was named on the bench by Ruben Amorim for three games in the 2024/25 campaign and then featured in the pre-season tour of the United States.

Although said to be available for loan this summer, Kone featured for the Under 21 side as they faced Tamworth in the National League Cup, which now features reserve sides from Premier League 2.

But the game was suspended near the end of the opening 45 minutes after Kone suffered a head injury in a collision which took place in his own box.

Physios and ambulance staff rushed onto the pitch, with the 19-year-old eventually taken away on a stretcher while holding a mask to his face after receiving treatment following a clash of heads and a hard landing on the turf.

He required further treatment in an ambulance and after an initial suspension, the fixture was abandoned completely.

According to @academyarenaUTD on X, this decision was taken as a replacement ambulance could not be called for in time

Man United provide update on Sekou Kone

Later on Wednesday evening, United issued an official statement on Kone's injury and condition - relieving fans by confirming that he was conscious and stable but had been transferred to hospital as a precautionary measure.

"We can confirm Sekou is conscious, stable and communicating with United’s medical team," United said on their official website.

"He has been taken to hospital, as a precaution, for further checks. Everybody at the club wishes him a speedy recovery."

United are in Group A of the National League Cup and will also face Brackley, Rochdale and Solihull Moors - with the top two from each of the four groups qualifying for the knockout stages.

Games ending in a draw are decided by a penalty shoot-out but there is no word on the status of Wednesday night's postponed match and when it will be replayed.

United are also in the Football League trophy and are due to play Barnsley, Lincoln City and Notts County in Group D.