Manchester United are the only team in the Premier League fighting on all four fronts, which means that the depth of the team will be essential if United is to succeed this season.
With the January transfer window in full swing, quite a few United stars are in the crosshairs of clubs due to the lack of minutes they have received so far.
Anthony Elanga and Facundo Pellistri are two wingers who are generating a lot of interest both within the Premier League and abroad.
Sancho returns to train with the team
But Ten Hag can’t afford to release both wingers, not until a replacement is brought in or Jadon Sancho is fit enough to return to competitive football.
The English winger last played for the first team against Chelsea in October and was put on an individual training program over the festive season.
Erik ten Hag on Jadon Sancho: “We will go step by step. Jadon is now taking the next step.” ???? #MUFC
“It’s true, he was there for the first time on Tuesday, in team practice, but team practice is the final practice before a game,” he quoted via @BeanymanSports. pic.twitter.com/jYXaGtj6Mj
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 20, 2023
Interestingly, The Peoples Person has already reported that the former Borussia Dortmund star has also started team training, which could suggest a comeback is pretty close.
However, Ten Hag has admitted there is “a way to go” before Sancho is welcomed back into United’s matchday squad.
Speaking to club media ahead of the clash with tops Arsenal, the United manager revealed he wants to see “progress” from the 22-year-old before a decision can be made on his return.
“That [group training] it’s the next step, he still has a ways to go,” he said.
Sancho’s participation in the day is still far
“He will know, but when he makes this progress, then he can return to the group for the games. Of course, we all expect that, because he is a great footballer. He has great abilities that can help us.
“We have to cover so many games, but we especially need quality players, and he’s definitely a quality player who can make a difference and we expect that from him.”
Ten Hag’s admission means it will be a few weeks before Sancho can be deemed fit enough to play.
Previously, it was thought that the Dutch manager could use the cup games to hand Sancho a few minutes before dropping him to the bottom of the league.
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