Photos: Lisandro Martinez plus five others back, shows off new look as he returns to Manchester United training

Optimism is brewing among Manchester United fans as a positive development unfolds regarding centre-back Lisandro Martinez.

Despite manager Erik ten Hag’s somber announcement before the international break that neither Casemiro nor Lisandro Martinez would return before Christmas, there’s a glimmer of hope for the latter’s swift comeback.

Martinez was spotted engaged in light training at Carrington, signaling a step forward in his recovery.

Noteworthy is the defender’s new look, bidding farewell to the bleached blonde hair, possibly symbolizing a fresh start for ‘The Butcher’ as he aims to rejoin the Manchester United first team.

Although not part of a full training session with the first team, Martinez was seen interacting with his teammates, displaying eagerness to return to action.

His presence is undoubtedly welcomed by the team, adding a positive dimension to the squad.

In tandem with this encouraging news, Manchester United receives a double boost with the return of Luke Shaw to first-team training.

The England international defender’s potential inclusion against Everton over the weekend serves as a significant boost, providing reinforcement for both the defense and attack.

While Shaw’s return is an immediate positive, Martinez’s resurgence appears to be on the horizon, offering further optimism.

The key, however, is to ensure a cautious approach, avoiding any hasty return. Martinez’s injury, a re-aggravation of a problem from the previous season, warrants careful management by the club’s medical staff this time around.