Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has received some positive news on the injury front with the potential return of summer signing Mason Mount. Mount, who joined United from Chelsea in July for £55 million, has been sidelined for much of his time at Old Trafford due to injuries.
The 24-year-old England international hasn’t featured for United since the second game of the season, a 2-0 defeat to Tottenham. However, recent signs suggest that Mount is edging closer to a first-team comeback.
Mount was seen in training with the squad as they prepare for two encounters with Crystal Palace this week. The first match, a Carabao Cup clash, will take place at Old Trafford, followed by a league meeting on Saturday.
Mount appeared in high spirits, seen smiling as he trained alongside his United teammates. His return is a welcome development for Ten Hag, who has had to contend with several injury concerns in recent weeks.
Another English international, Harry Maguire, has been dealing with a knock that has kept him out of the last two matches. United’s defense has been particularly affected by injuries, with all four members of Ten Hag’s preferred backline having been sidelined at some point this season.
Lisandro Martinez is the latest addition to the injury list, although Raphael Varane has since recovered from his injury, making a late appearance in Saturday’s game against Burnley.
Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia remain unavailable, and even emergency cover Sergio Reguilon recently battled an illness, but he managed to play against Burnley and will be ready to face Crystal Palace.
While United aims to retain the League Cup this season, it’s clear that the team has more significant aspirations. As a result, Ten Hag may make several changes for Tuesday’s match. Young goalkeeper Altay Bayindir, signed from Fenerbahce this summer, could make his debut in place of Dean Henderson. First-choice goalkeeper Andre Onana has yet to spend any time on the bench this season.