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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Jack Flintham

Four things spotted as Manchester United return to training and wonderkid put through paces

Manchester United returned to training at Carrington on Thursday in cool conditions as their focus moves to Nottingham Forest on Tuesday.

The Reds progressed to the Carabao Cup quarter-finals after victory over Burnley this midweek. Christian Eriksen gave United the lead in the first half thanks to a great assist from Aaron Wan-Bissaka.

Marcus Rashford's superb solo effort made it two after the interval as the Premier League side overcame their Championship opposition. Fixtures continue to come thick and fast this festive season so Erik ten Hag had his men back in training on Thursday to prepare for Forest next week.

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Here is what MEN Sport spotted at Carrington.

1) Kobbie Mainoo being put through his paces

He may not have made the bench on Wednesday night against Burnley but Mainoo remains in Ten Hag's plans. His goal against Cadiz made the best possible impression during the World Cup break and the youngster was seen taking part in drills on Thursday ahead of United's next match.

Kobbie Mainoo in Manchester United training (Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

2) Rhys Bennett edging towards first United appearance

Unlike Mainoo, Bennett was on the bench against Burnley this week as United's centre-back depth was pushed to its limits. Harry Maguire pulled out of the Carabao Cup clash through illness and this meant Casemiro was moved into centre-back.

Should Ten Hag opt not to play the Brazilian in defence, Bennett is an option having impressed for the club's U21s. United will however be hoping for Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane back soon.

Rhys Bennett attempts to win the ball back in training (Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

3) Alejandro Garnacho feeling the cold

The Argentine burst onto the scene at Old Trafford before the World Cup break and continued to receive chances to impress post-tournament as he started against Burnley. Before the break, controversy was sparked when Scott McTominay was seen booting Garnacho's hat away in what looked to be a joke but what some claimed was bullying.

From Thursday's evidence, it would seem that Garnacho is still not used to the Manchester winter.

Alejandro Garnacho wraps up warm at Carrington (Matthew Peters/Manchester United via Getty Images)

4) Facundo Pellistri still pushing for an opportunity

Pellistri featured prominently for Uruguay at the World Cup in Qatar leading many to wonder why he has not featured for United's first team yet. It seemed like the Burnley game would be a great opportunity for the youngster to feature.

However, Pellistri was an unused substitute as the Reds secured themselves in the last eight. Perhaps his time at Old Trafford is coming to an end.

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