Manchester United could soon have Kobbie Mainoo available for selection for the first time this season.
The 18-year-old was ruled out for the start of the campaign after suffering an ankle injury in a pre-season clash with Real Madrid.
Erik ten Hag has regularly spoken highly of Mainoo’s potential and he is expected to take a role in the first-team when he returns to contention.
Reports suggest that could happen after this month’s international break and he took a step towards his recovery when featuring in United’s training session on Monday.
During the open part of the first-team squad’s workout before the Champions League visit of Galatasaray, Mainoo joined his teammates on the Carrington pitches.
While he is not expected to feature on Tuesday night, the teenager will be a welcome addition to United’s midfield when fit and Ten Hag has outlined his plan to play him as an anchor man.
“Kobbie Mainoo, we have seen him against Arsenal [in pre-season], he is ready to also to pick that role,” he said in August.
“At this moment, he’s not available but I think he will also, in say one, two months. Not in one month, but in two months, he will be available. And so, for the winter coming up, he absolutely will have his games.”
Kobbie Mainoo involved in training with the Manchester United side today. ✅ pic.twitter.com/hwkgfkQ6ku
— Football Daily (@footballdaily) October 2, 2023
One player who could return to the fold against Galatasaray is Antony, who has spent a month away from the United squad due to allegations surrounding his personal life.
Ten Hag told reporters on Monday: “Antony will be in consideration but yesterday was his first time back in team training. We have a final training, then we'll make a decision.”
