Mason Greenwood has held secret meetings with some members of the Manchester United squad as he bids to rebuild his relationship with his team-mates, it has been claimed.
Greenwood is unable to play or train with the squad while an internal investigation takes place. That investigation came after Greenwood saw charges of charges of attempted rape and coercive or controlling behaviour dropped by prosecutors.
The Crown Prosecution Service confirmed at the start of the month that the withdrawal of key witnesses and new evidence meant there was "no longer a realistic prospect of conviction" and as a result they had "a duty to stop the case".
Despite that, Greenwood has been unable to return to the squad while United conduct an investigation into the matter. But according to The Sun, Greenwood has been able to meet some of his team-mates in secret away from the training ground.
It is stated that he has 'reached out' to some players, including some he has known since his time with the United academy. Those players have met him in private to 'hear him out' and make their own mind up about his case.
He has also reached out via social media to other members of the squad, some of whom are married and have children. But with the Red Devils on a 16-game unbeaten run, it is said the squad are 'absolutely focused' on on-pitch matters.
The news of the secret meetings comes as United prepare to gauge the opinion of the dressing room before they allow Greenwood to return. According to ESPN, leadership groups from both the men's and women's squads will be canvassed for their opinion.
A final decision on whether Greenwood can return to training or selection is not expected before the summer. But there is some concern within the United dressing room about Greenwood returning.
According to The Times, some of the men's squad hold 'stark concerns', with the women's team also thought to be concerned about him coming back. Female staff members are said to share similar worries, while United's commercial partners are monitoring the situation.
Greenwood has two-and-a-half years remaining on his current deal with United, although there is an option to extend that by a further campaign. Since breaking into the first-team during the 2018/19 campaign, he has made 129 appearances for the Red Devils, scoring 35 goals.
Speaking after the decision to drop the charges against him was made by the Crown Prosecution Service, Greenwood said: "I am relieved this matter is now over. I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support."
Manchester United declined Mirror Football's request for comment on the reports Greenwood had been meeting some members of their squad.
