Erik ten Hag gives injury update on Mason Mount ahead of Newcastle v Man Utd

Erik ten Hag has confirmed Mason Mount is back in Manchester United training but said he is not sure when the midfielder will be available to return to the team.

The ex-Chelsea man has missed the last two matches with a calf problem he picked up during November’s international break and was not expected back for another few weeks. However, speaking in Friday’s pre-match press conference, Ten Hag revealed that Mount has stepped up his recovery from injury.

Asked if any players could be returning to the team soon, Ten Hag replied: “There are players on the way back but I can't give a prognosis on how long it will take. Mason Mount today is returning on the pitch but I don't know how long it will take, in this moment.”

Mount’s return to the team could be a huge boost with Casemiro and Christian Eriksen out with injury at present. It means Ten Hag may have to choose between Sofyan Amrabat, Kobbie Mainoo, Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes in midfield for Saturday’s game against Newcastle United.

The Red Devils also confirmed on Friday that Tyrell Malacia has suffered a setback on his recovery from a knee injury and has undergone surgery. The defender is not expected back until the new year.

Elsewhere, Jonny Evans, Lisandro Martinez, Casemiro, Eriksen and Amad are set to miss Saturday’s trip to Newcastle United through injury, while Jadon Sancho remains frozen out of the squad by Ten Hag.

United head into the game in sixth place and have won five out of the last six league matches.