Manchester United have received a timely double injury boost before Saturday’s Premier League opener against Hull City, with Benjamin Sesko and Matthijs de Ligt returning to training with Michael Carrick’s squad.
United confirmed in their latest Carrington training update that both players were involved with the group as preparations intensified for the trip to the MKM Stadium.
Sesko’s return is particularly significant.
The striker has not featured throughout pre-season while recovering from the shin injury which ruled him out of United’s final three matches last season, but the club say he will hopefully be available for selection soon.
De Ligt was also on the grass as he continues his recovery from the back problem which eventually required surgery in May.
Benjamin Sesko return changes Man Utd’s Hull options
Neither player’s involvement guarantees a start against Hull, particularly after lengthy spells on the sidelines.
Sesko, however, potentially being available even from the bench would substantially improve Carrick’s attacking options.
ReadManUtd reported on Tuesday that United would only look for another striker if Joshua Zirkzee leaves, with Sesko considered the recognised first-choice option when fully fit.
Bryan Mbeumo had been expected to lead the line at Hull in his absence.
De Ligt’s progress creates another decision in defence. Harry Maguire, Leny Yoro and Ayden Heaven have all competed for places during pre-season, with Maguire recently backing Yoro and Heaven to become United’s long-term centre-back partnership.
There was less encouraging news surrounding Mason Mount.
The midfielder was absent from the session as he continues recovering from the foot problem suffered against Paris Saint-Germain on 8 August.
Mount has subsequently missed the friendlies against Leeds United and AC Milan despite Carrick initially describing the problem as precautionary.
His continued absence makes him a serious doubt for Saturday.
Carrick therefore has two important players moving closer to contention just as another threatens to miss the opening weekend.
Both were published within the last 24 hours.
