Erik ten Hag has offered an optimistic update on Tyrell Malacia's fitness after a nightmare spell for the Manchester United defender.
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Malacia has not played for over a yearWorking way back from knee surgeryTen Hag offers positive update on left-backWHAT HAPPENED?
Malacia joined United in 2022 from Feyenoord but has only managed 22 appearances for the Red Devils after a nightmare time with injury. The left-back has been out since May 2023 with a knee injury that required surgery. He returned to training in July but continued to experience discomfort, however, there may be finally be light at the end of the tunnel for Malacia.
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He said: "Of course, we want to motivate him to return, but it’s not so easy when you are so long away. Over a season now from an injury to return, but he’s working very hard, he’s progressing really well in this moment. He’s making big steps, so we think, at short notice, we can expect him in the team training, and he is a talent, it’s natural. I expect also, soon, he can return into games then."
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Left-back has been a problem position for United in recent seasons, with Luke Shaw also having struggled with injury and been sidelined for long spells. Portugal international Diogo Dalot has filled in on the left side of defence, while new signing Noussair Mazraoui can also play on both flanks when needed.
ImagoWHAT NEXT FOR MAN UTD
United were hit hard by injuries to key players last season and are currently without several key stars at the start of the current campaign. Malacia's return will be a boost for the club and for the 25-year-old who will be eager to get his career back on track after a difficult time on the sidelines.