Ayden Heaven has returned to training for Manchester United after recovering from illness, providing a timely boost for manager Michael Carrick ahead of Sunday's Premier League match against Bournemouth at Old Trafford.
The young defender missed United's trips to Leeds United and Como due to illness, but is now back with the squad and could feature against the Cherries in what is a must-win game for Carrick, who has not overseen a victory in seven matches.
Pressure Mounting on Carrick
The winless run has increased scrutiny on the manager, who apologised to supporters after the 4-1 defeat by Como in the Champions League. Some fans also turned on him on social media following that result.
United's defensive options have been stretched by injuries, with Lisandro Martinez sidelined with a thigh problem and left-backs Luke Shaw and Patrick Dorgu out with thigh and hamstring issues respectively.
Defensive Reinforcements
Matthijs de Ligt recently returned to the side after almost a year in Italy, partnering Harry Maguire for the first time since the latter's back injury suffered in November 2025.
Heaven, a former Arsenal centre-back, now returns to bolster the backline. Speaking on Friday, Carrick said: "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]."
Focus on Mental Preparation
The manager also highlighted the mental aspect of the upcoming fixture: "It's more mentally now. Physically, the boys are recovering from a game and there is only so much training you can do out on the grass. It's more mental and being prepared for what's next."
United sit 13th in the Premier League after a run that has seen them without a win since late August.
