Kobbie Mainoo has returned to Manchester United training after missing four consecutive matches through injury, giving Michael Carrick a potential boost ahead of Saturday’s Premier League trip to Chelsea.

The midfielder participated in Wednesday morning’s session at Carrington after spending several weeks on the sidelines, raising hopes that he could feature at Stamford Bridge.

According to Sam C on X, “The midfielder took part in Wednesday morning’s session at Carrington after missing United’s last four matches through injury”.

Mainoo completed United’s 1-1 draw against Tottenham Hotspur on October 10 but picked up an injury during the encounter. He subsequently missed the Champions League defeat to Atletico Madrid three days later.

Carrick was initially uncertain whether the academy graduate would recover in time for the meeting with Leeds United. On October 20, the United manager estimated that Mainoo could need another 10 days to return.

The 21-year-old subsequently missed the matches against Como and Bournemouth before returning to training this week.

His fitness following Wednesday’s session will determine whether he starts against Chelsea, earns a place on the bench or requires additional recovery time.

United head into the encounter sitting 16th in the Premier League, having recorded just two victories in 12 matches across all competitions this season.

Mainoo’s return could provide Carrick with additional options in midfield, particularly as Carlos Baleba has also recovered from an ankle injury and returned to full fitness.