Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick could play for the club's Under-21 side against West Ham United on Friday, according to the Telegraph.
Carrick has yet to feature for the first-team this season after picking up a long-term ankle injury in the summer, but was on the bench for the club on Monday night as they secured a 2-2 draw against West Brom at the Hawthorns.
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Return
It appears, then, that the 33-year-old could play 45 minutes for the young United side on Friday in an attempt to prove his fitness ahead of a showdown with Premier League table-toppers Chelsea at Old Trafford.
The Red Devils can play as many as three over-age players for the U-21 side, with Brazilian outcast Anderson in contention to partner Carrick in the middle of the park.
United fans will certainly be pleased to see the former Spurs man making his way back to first-team action, as he's proved a key member of the side over the last few years.
Options
With Carrick returning, Manchester United boss Louis van Gaal now has more midfield options at his disposal, with the likes of Ander Herrera, Daley Blind and Darren Fletcher at his disposal.
The Red Devils have also been boosted after Belgian midfielder Marouane Fellaini finally proved his credentials for the club on Monday as he bagged a superb goal against the Baggies.
Huge clash
United's midfielders will certainly endure a tricky test this weekend against Chelsea's Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas. The Blues have started the campaign in fine form, but the Red Devils will be desperate to secure all three points against Jose Mourinho's side in order to remain in the title race.
Van Gaal's side are already 10 points adrift of the Blues after just eight league games, and face a daunting next month of fixtures.
Manchester United fans: Do you think Carrick will play a key role for your side this season? Have your say in the comments section below!
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