According to a report by the Evening Standard on Friday, October 23, 2026, Manchester United have received a boost ahead of their Premier League meeting with Bournemouth, with defender Ayden Heaven returning to training after recovering from illness.

The young centre-back missed United’s trips to Leeds United and Como because of the illness but has rejoined the first-team group as Michael Carrick prepares his players for Sunday’s encounter at Old Trafford.

Heaven’s return comes at an important time for United, who have been dealing with several defensive injury problems. His availability could provide Carrick with another option as the club look to improve their performances and halt a difficult run of results.

Speaking on Friday, Carrick confirmed that the former Arsenal defender had resumed training with his teammates, although he indicated that further assessments would determine the situation regarding other players.

“Ayden is back with group, he was suffering from illness but is back around the group and then we'll see what the next couple of days bring [for the others],” Carrick said.

United’s defensive options have been limited by injuries to Lisandro Martinez, Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu. Martinez is sidelined with a thigh problem, while Shaw and Dorgu are dealing with thigh and hamstring injuries respectively.

The situation has increased the importance of having additional defenders available, particularly after Matthijs de Ligt returned to the team following his lengthy absence. The Dutchman partnered Harry Maguire in a recent appearance, marking their first time playing together since Maguire sustained a back injury in November 2025.

Heaven’s return to group training therefore offers Carrick another potential option, although his involvement against Bournemouth will depend on his fitness and the manager’s selection decisions.

United head into the weekend under considerable pressure after a disappointing run of results. They suffered a 4-1 defeat against Como in the Champions League during the week, a result that intensified criticism of Carrick and prompted the manager to apologise to supporters.

The Red Devils have also struggled to secure victories in recent weeks, leaving them needing a positive response against Bournemouth.

Carrick acknowledged that preparation for the match would involve more than physical training, with recovery and mental readiness also important following the demanding schedule.

He explained that the players were recovering physically from their previous match and that the remaining preparation would focus largely on their mental approach and readiness for the next challenge.

United will hope Heaven’s return can help strengthen their defensive options as they prepare to face Bournemouth at Old Trafford on Sunday.