Casemiro shares four-word message after returning to Manchester United training

Midfield enforcer Casemiro has been sidelined for Man United since the start of November because of a hamstring injury.

Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has set his sights on getting his season back on track after returning to first-team training.

The Brazilian, who joined United from Spanish outfit Real Madrid in August 2022, was filmed participating in a first-team training session at Carrington on Wednesday. He has been sidelined since the start of November because of hamstring injury.

He was forced off at half-time during the 3-0 defeat to Newcastle United in the fourth round of the Carabao Cup on November 1. Issuing an update the following week manager Erik ten Hag admitted he did not expect him to return until after Christmas.

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Though his performances in comparison to last season had been on a downward trajectory prior to his injury, he still offers United a range of qualities that no other member of the squad possesses. His ability to break up play and protect the back-four are traits that have made him one of the best defensive-midfielders in the world over the past decade.

Having returned to full training the 31-year-old is hungry to get back in the thick of the action. Following a relentless December United currently have just two scheduled matches this month, starting against Wigan Athletic in the third round of the FA Cup on Monday.

It is not yet clear if the trip to the DW Stadium will come too soon for the midfield enforcer, he is, judging by his social media activity, itching to get back to business. Posting a short message on his Instagram story, featuring a picture of himself during the aforementioned training session, Casemiro said: "Back to the pitch."

His return to full fitness is a massive boost for both United and Ten Hag, who has pinned his hopes on his side turning their fortunes around in the coming weeks, as their injury crisis continues to ease. A cluster of players including Lisandro Martinez and Mason Mount are expected back this month.

United have encountered 35 cases of injury or illness-related issues this season that have caused a player to miss a game. The situation has taken its toll and Ten Hag will be praying for a change in fortunes.

After Monday's trip to Wigan, United welcome Tottenham Hotspur to Old Trafford in the Premier League on January 14. That marks United's only league fixture this month.

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