Delightful news for Man Utd as ‘magnificent’ star set to return from injury; Still the first name on team sheet?

Manchester United defender Matthijs de Ligt is close to sealing a return from injury after a month on the sidelines.The 26-year-old was omnipresent in the lineup this season prior to an injury he suffered at the start of December. His last appearance to date was in the away win over Crystal Palace on November 30.The Dutchman’s untimely absence gave Ruben Amorim a major selection headache, as Harry Maguire has also been struggling with his own injury problems, while Noussair Mazraoui left in the middle of December to join the Moroccan national team for the African Cup of Nations. To make matters even worse for the Red Devils, Leny Yoro suffered a steep dip in form in recent weeks.However, reputable Carrington insider Sully delivered positive updates on the injury front.Matthijs de Ligt closing in on return to actionIn his latest post on CentreDevils, Sully revealed that De Ligt has returned to grass training, albeit he’s still working on a personalised regime.The former Ajax captain’s exact return date hinges on the rehabilitation process, but the feeling is that his comeback should ensue in the coming days or weeks, which should provide Amorim a timely boost ahead of a busy January schedule.(Photo by Matt McNulty/Getty Images)The journalist added that the Dutchman had undergone specialised treatment to overcome his back problems.Once De Ligt is back at his disposal, Amorim would finally have some options at the back, but will the former Juventus and Bayern Munich instantly regain his starting berth?Man Utd found a solid defensive partnership in De Ligt’s absenceEarlier this season, Man Utd legend Rio Ferdinand hailed De Ligt’s ‘magnificent’ performances, arguing that he should be the first name on the team sheet.But in recent weeks, Lisandro Martinez has been delivering solid displays at the back following his return from a long layoff, while Amorim suggested that it would be difficult for anyone to displace Ayden Heaven if he continues to perform at his current level. The teenager has been hailed for his ‘outstanding’ outings.And with United increasingly leaning towards a four-man backline, there could only be two centre-back slots up for grabs.Therefore, De Ligt might not immediately retain his spot in the lineup upon his return, but one would expect him to eventually reclaim it in the long run, as he’s been one of the club’s most consistent performers this season.