Eric Bailly returns to training

The Ivorian hasn’t featured in any of the Reds’ last eight games in all competitions, since starting at centre-back in the 3-1 victory over Burnley in our final fixture of 2021.

Bailly was away at the Africa Cup of Nations during January, helping the Elephants to the round of 16 before they were knocked out by eventual runners-up Egypt on penalties, after a goalless draw.

Eric returned to Manchester shortly afterwards but had to miss the games with Middlesbrough, Burnley and Southampton due to injury.

However, our exclusive images show the 27-year-old working with the rest of his team-mates which is good news in terms of a potential return.

Raphael Varane and Harry Maguire have formed the central defensive partnership for United in recent weeks, with Victor Lindelof and Phil Jones also getting minutes since the new year.

Bailly’s availability for the clash with Brighton & Hove Albion on Tuesday may be unlikely, although Ralf Rangnick earlier confirmed that United will definitely be without Nemanja Matic and Edinson Cavani for the visit of Graham Potter’s side.

Fred is available for selection once more having recovered from COVID-19, while Alex Telles returned to the squad on Saturday having also recently contracted the virus.

You can have your say on the Reds' XI to face the Seagulls by playing the United Predictions game in the Manchester United App.

Here's what people are punting for so far...

First scorer:

42% = Cristiano Ronaldo
21% = Jadon Sancho
13% = Marcus Rashford

Correct score:

28% = United 2 Brighton 1
25% = United 2 Brighton 0
11% = United 3 Brighton 0

Man of the Match:

24% = David De Gea
20% = Jadon Sancho
17% = Cristiano Ronaldo