Ten Hag provides update on two Man United player’s return, including Sancho

Erik Ten Hag is relieved to have both Jadon Sancho and Axel Tuanzebe back in first-team training but the Dutchman has acknowledged that neither player is quite ready to feature in competitive games.

Sancho has not been seen in action since October last year with Tuanzebe ruled out through injury for over six months.

Following both players’ return to training recently, the manager has provided an update on when fans can expect to see them involved in United’s matchday squads.

“Yes but, for them, comes the same [message],” the Dutchman told the club’s official website.

“They are not available yet for games but they are progressing. Definitely, Axel, it was a long time that he was not available for matches or for training. Individual rehab was really hard for him. Then, you can understand, it takes time; back in training as well, and also in team training, then you have to build up. So that will take weeks.”

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Interestingly, according to agent Jon Smith, who spoke to CaughtOffside earlier this month, Tuanzebe is wanted by Championship club Watford, but considering Ten Hag does not expect the defender to be fully fit for quite some time, it would seem a January move is unlikely to materialise.

“Axel Tuabzebe is another defender worth paying attention to in this window,” Smith said.

“He’s just returned to Man United from his loan in Italy and he’s on the right path to regaining full fitness. I know he’s back in training and being put through his paces, so it’s just a case of whether or not Erik Ten Hag fancies him for a first-team place, or if he’d prefer to see him go out on loan again.

“Of course, the player himself will have to keep proving his fitness, but there are several clubs interested – mostly from the Championship. Watford are one side who are keen though.”

As for Sancho, the Englishman’s impending return will not only please fans but will also provide Ten Hag with valuable competition for Brazilian winger Antony, who has come under fire recently for a series of lacklustre displays.

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