Harry Maguire is closing in on a return to Manchester United from injury.
Maguire has stepped up his rehabilitation and has been doing individual on-ball grass training in the last week.
The 32-year-old hopes to return to team training soon in a boost to United.
Maguire has not played for the Red Devils since picking up a muscle injury after the match against Tottenham Hotspur in November.
He has been an important first-team member this season, scoring twice in nine appearances across all competitions.
United’s defence has been criticised this term after conceding 28 goals in 18 Premier League fixtures.
However, Lisandro Martinez and Ayden Heaven produced a masterclass display in Friday’s 1-0 victory against Newcastle United, helping secure only their second clean sheet of the season.
Despite the duo’s brilliance, Maguire’s return will come as a boost for United, giving them more options in defence.
United have been hit hard by injuries recently. Bernandes was forced off with a hamstring issue in last weekend’s defeat to Aston Villa.
Matthijs de Ligt has been absent for the last four games due to a back injury, while Kobbie Mainoo missed the previous two fixtures.
United are also without Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo and Noussair Mazraoui due to the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Stats from Transfermarkt.
