MANCHESTER, England: Manchester United returned to action early Tuesday morning with renewed confidence as interim manager Michael Carrick welcomed Mason Mount back from injury while Lisandro Martinez returned to training ahead of the Premier League (EPL) match against Leeds United.
Carrick’s side have not played for more than three weeks since a 2-2 draw at Bournemouth, but they are back in third place in the league as they look to cement their Champions League qualification hopes, aided by a burgeoning squad as the season enters a crucial phase.
Mount has been a rare starter due to injury and only managed to play for a minute in the match against Bournemouth.
“It’s good to see Mason back with us after we lost him so soon after we took over,” Carrick told the media yesterday.
“He’s had almost two or three weeks to rebuild his fitness and get back into rhythm. His versatility is a major strength. He can play in the middle, in the central position, on the wing and play a variety of roles.
“We need to give him time to get back to full fitness and be patient, but he is at a good level now.”
Carrick, however, has yet to make a decision on the status of Martinez, who has not played since suffering a calf injury in early February.
“It’s a decision we have to make. We won’t rush into this.”
“He’s back in training and on the pitch, that’s a positive development. But we need to make sure he’s really ready.”
United are currently third on 55 points, one point ahead of fourth-placed Aston Villa and three points clear of fifth-placed Liverpool.
Carrick has made a huge impact since taking over in January, collecting 23 points from the 30 on offer, stabilising the team after a turbulent first half of the season.
With just a few weeks left and competition for five Champions League places fierce, United know they can’t make any mistakes.