This has probably felt like the longest international break off all time for Manchester United fans.
As the Premier League paused for the World Cup qualifiers, Cristiano Ronaldo made United supporters’ dreams come true when he secured a deadline day return to Old Trafford.
They would have also seen their hero and five-time Ballon D’Or winner score a magnificent brace of headers in the 89th and 96th minute against the Republic of Ireland, before departing the international team early to return to United.
ESPN have since confirmed that Ronaldo will start training with United on Wednesday, after undergoing a five-day quarantine.
United fans are counting down the days until their next home match against Newcastle United, where Ronaldo could make his first appearance for the club since the 2009 Champions League final.
However, as well as the impending return of the five-time Champions League winner, Ole Gunnar-Solskjaer’s side have also been further boosted by the returns of Scott McTominay and Alex Telles.
United confirmed on ManUtd.com that both players were training at the club’s base in Carrington.
McTominay’s return is the biggest surprise with the Scottish midfield general only recently undergoing surgery on his groin.
The 24-year-old was forced to miss United’s 1-0 victory away to Wolves where Mason Greenwood’s crisp strike secured a vital three points for The Reds.
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Telles has not appeared in a United shirt since he picked up an ankle injury in a pre-season victory against Derby County in June.
However, McTominay’s return to training will certainly be positive news for the United faithful.
His absence has been well and duly noticed, as his normal defensive midfield partner Fred has struggled at the base of the midfield without the imposing Scott.
The Brazilian midfielder scored an unfortunate own goal in their 1-1 draw away to Southampton, and he was given a torrid time by Wolves winger Adama Traore at the Molineux.
Fred’s future appears to be in doubt as reports have also emerged United are keen on signing West Ham midfielder Declan Rice.
As well as announcing Ronaldo commencing of United training, Dawson also reported the Red Devils’ interest in the 22-year-old defensive midfielder.
After signing Jadon Sancho and Raphael Varane as well as Ronaldo, it is also understood Solskjaer’s side want to follow up with a new midfielder and striker next summer.
United fans were also desperate for the club to sign a new midfielder, and they were disappointed when Chelsea pipped them to the signature of Saul Niguez.
However, United are targeting a move for Rice next year, in the hope that by then, The Hammers would have reduced their significant asking price of around £80m.
Dean Henderson and Edison Cavani were also involved in United training, as the pair aim to recover their match fitness.
Jadon Sancho also reported back to their Carrington training base after suffering a minor injury while on England duty.
United are currently third in the Premier League joint second with West Ham and two points behind Tottenham Hotspur.
