Video: joy for United as long-term absentee spotted back in training

Tyrell Malacia has made a welcome return to training, marking his first appearance since recovering from a prolonged knee injury.

This development brings a glimmer of hope to Manchester United, who have been grappling with a string of injuries.

Earlier, the team received a boost when Casemiro returned to training after sustaining an ankle injury during international duty.

Now, another absentee is back in the mix after being sidelined for nearly three months.

According to a report by Laurie Whitwell from The Athletic, Tyrell Malacia was spotted on the training ground, engaging in solo ball work.

This session represents a significant step forward in his recovery journey from the knee injury that has kept him out of action throughout the season, including pre-season matches.

The Dutch fullback had high hopes for this season, following a promising debut year. However, his injury has derailed those aspirations.

The situation was so dire that Manchester United had to make an emergency signing in the form of Sergio Reguilon to fill the left-back position after Luke Shaw’s injury.

Ideally, Malacia would have seamlessly taken over while Shaw recuperated, but the crisis escalated to the point where manager Erik ten Hag had to use five different players in that position this season.

Although Malacia is currently limited to solo training and is yet to rejoin the team, his return to competitive action may still be a bit down the road.

It is quite possible that he won’t make his season debut until after the November international break, specifically against Everton on November 26.

Before the break, Manchester United has a packed schedule with six games, the last of which is scheduled for November 11 against Luton Town.

In the meantime, Sergio Reguilon is making good progress in his recovery and might be available for the UEFA Champions League game against Copenhagen tomorrow.