Man Utd loan star 'ahead of schedule' as boss hints at 'potential return' for Lioness

Manchester United head coach has revealed that on loan midfielder Grace Clinton is 'ahead of schedule' as he hinted at a possible return for the loan star.

The Red Devils face Tottenham Hotspur in the Women's Super League (WSL) this week where Clinton has been a virtual ever present after joining the club on loan in the summer. Her excellent form for Spurs has resulted in her being called up for the England squad recently and has clearly impressed.

"In our team, there's a lot more competition for those positions but the way Grace has performed, I am really, really happy with and I am watching closely" said the United boss.

"I think she is probably ahead of schedule but not where we believe she could get to that standard, absolutely. It is the consistency of the playing time. She won't play against us, but it is someone I am watching very closely to see if she has accelerated enough for us to potentially bring her back - or in the future when and what time to bring her back," explained Skinner.

Clinton, 20, enjoyed a successful spell with Bristol City last term where she was pivotal to the side's Women's Championship title win and her form has carried on with Spurs, where she has three goal contributions in eight games for her new side.

Her form has led her to be being included in Sarina Wiegman's England squad for the recent games against Netherlands and Scotland and, while she is yet to be appear for the Lionesses, Skinner admitted he's delighted for the former Everton youngster.

"I am really happy with where she is at. She's a great kid, someone who wants to learn and be a good footballer. I think she's been very good and I am very happy with her performances so far" added the United head coach.

Manchester United face a trip to Tottenham Hotspur this Sunday, kick off is scheduled for 6.45pm and the game will be screened live on Sky Sports Main Event.