No timescale on Sancho return, says Man.utd boss Ten Hag

LONDON: Erik ten Hag says he cannot rush the return of Jadon Sancho, admiting there is no timescale on when the winger will return to action for Manchester United.

Sancho, a big-money signing from Borussia Dortmund 18 months ago, has not featured for United since playing 52 minutes of a 1-1 draw at Chelsea in October and was let out of England’s World Cup squad.

Ten Hag said last month the 22-year-old was “not in the right status or fitness state” and he missed United’s two-match tour of Spain, instead placed on an individual fitness programme in the Netherlands.

Sancho has returned to the club’s training ground at Carrington but his involvement has so far been limited to small group sessions as he concentrates on his own personal plan.

“I would like to have Jadon back as soon as possible, but I can’t force this process,” Ten Hag said on Thursday. “I will do everything that’s in my power but some processes you can’t force and this is one of them.

“I also have to show patience although I don’t have patience because we have a lack of opportunities in the front line, players who are available and capable to contribute not only in the Premier League but on the highest standard in football.

“Jadon is one who, when he is fit, he will contribute and we will have an extra option and so we have more chance to win a lot of games.”

Ten Hag, speaking ahead of United’s FA Cup third-round tie against Everton on Friday, believes Sancho is heading in the right direction but said there was a long way to go before he could be considered ready for a comeback.

BUT LAND RELISHING UNIT ED M OVE: Former England goalkeeper Jack Butland said Friday he was “relishing” joining Manchester United on loan from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace for the remainder of the season.

The 29-year-old is set to provide both cover and competition for first-choice David De Gea and current reserve keeper Tom Heaton at Old Trafford ater Martin Dubravka was recalled from his loan move by parent club Newcastle.

Butland, capped nine times by England, said in a statement: “This is an amazing club and one that I am now proud to represent.