Left-back Brandon Williams has been told to stay consistent in his game if he wants to edge his way back into Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United plans, as he faces a tough task to gain some minutes.
The defender has recovered from a long-term setback that kept him out of the club’s summer tour and first half of the season. The 22-year-old enjoyed a sustained period in the first team during the 2019/20 season, making 36 appearances.
After a stuttering 2020/21 campaign, when he played right-back more times than on the left, he secured a loan move to Norwich last season. He suffered relegation with the Canaries before picking up an injury ahead of pre-season.
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Williams is considered third-choice left-back behind Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia but with both at the World Cup, Williams started both of the club’s friendlies against Cadiz and Real Betis during the week-long trip to Spain.
Speaking on MUTV, ex-defender Wes Brown said the Englishman must build up as much momentum as he can although admitted a route back into the United starting XI looks tricky. He said: “He [Williams] started off well when he first got in.
“He had the loan spell at Norwich and did really well but now he’s back he’s got a difficult one because Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia are all playing well so he knows it’s going to be tough for him.
“The manager knows he’s a good player and he’ll want to see some consistency from him. It’s good that he’s back fit and this [training week in Spain] will be good for his fitness.”
Speaking about his comeback from injury this week, Williams said the journey back to fitness was tough but felt ready to get going again. He said: “It’s been good to get back out on the pitch. I miss what I do.
“Seeing the boys train, fly out to countries… Pre-season and stuff by myself it was hard and difficult.
"But - thanks to the physios and my team-mates and the people behind the scenes who have helped me a lot, helped with my mentality, not just with my body as well - I feel good, I feel great and it’s good to be back now.”
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