Manchester United head coach Erik ten Hag has said that Mason Mount's return to action 'will not be forced' but has insisted the attacker will feature before the end of the campaign.
The 25-year-old has had a frustrating first season at Old Trafford following a move from Chelsea during last summer's transfer window.
Mount has only made 12 appearances for the 20-time English champions, with his last appearance coming against Luton Town in the Premier League on November 11.
The Englishman has struggled with various muscular problems this season, but Ten Hag has insisted that the playmaker is making progress and will be able to feature before the end of the 2023-24 campaign.
"I think he is still struggling [from the injury] he got in the second game of the season. He returned for a period and then he picked up another injury," Ten Hag told reporters during his press conference ahead of Sunday's Premier League clash with West Ham United.
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"That is not great and it is frustrating for him and I feel for him. He had such high expectations and I had such high expectations for him, he could be a good player for us.
"What is the most important thing for him now is to get him fit and go and be secure in the process, step by step, don't force it and then hopefully by the end of the season he can stay fit and fight to be in the team. Or at least play a role in this team."
When asked whether Mount would be available for selection before the end of the campaign, the head coach added: "Of course, I expect him to return."
Mount has only made eight Premier League appearances this season, while he featured in just two of the team's six matches in the group stage of the Champions League.
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The Englishman arrived at Old Trafford off the back of scoring 33 goals and registering 37 assists in 195 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions.
Mount will again be unavailable for selection against West Ham, while Anthony Martial is a long-term absentee following a groin operation.
Ten Hag has provided a positive update on the recoveries of Tyrell Malacia and Victor Lindelof, though, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka is close to being available following a knock.
Sofyan Amrabat could also boost Man United's squad for the clash with the Hammers, as the midfielder is due to resume training with the 20-time English champions on Saturday following his involvement for Morocco at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Meanwhile, Lisandro Martinez should be fit, with his late withdrawal against Wolverhampton Wanderers on Thursday and treatment on the bench only a precaution.
Matt Law
