Eric Bailly may be available to Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho as early as Thursday night’s EFL Cup semi-final second leg tie against Hull City.

The Ivorian should definitely be back in the north-west of England in time for Sunday’s FA Cup fixture against Wigan Athletic.

Bailly has been out of club action, as he has been competing in the Africa Cup of Nations with the Ivory Coast.

However, the Elephants have made an unexpectedly early exit from the competition, following a 1-0 loss to Morocco on Tuesday night.

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The availability of the centre-back, who has been a vital cog in Jose Mourinho’s first season as manager of the Red Devils, will be a huge boost for Manchester United.

Bailly played in all three of his country’s group stage games at the continental competition – and was booked for a reckless challenge during the loss to Morocco.

The 22-year-old will no doubt taste greater success with his country in the future, but for now, he’s Manchester bound.