Jadon Sancho: Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag says he will be patient with forward's return to action
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ByEurosport
Updated 06/01/2023 at 09:29 GMT
Jadon Sancho has scored eight goals in 52 appearances for United in two seasons after a £73m switch from Borussia Dortmund, but he has not featured for United since October with Ten Hag stating he is not "in the right status or physical state". Ten Hag insists he will be patient with Sancho as he looks to get him back fully involved with the senior squad.
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Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag says he would like to have Jadon Sancho "back as soon as possible" but insists "footballers are not robots".
Sancho has not played for United since a 1-1 draw against Chelsea on October 22 and was not included in England's World Cup squad.
Ten Hag said in December Sancho was not "in the right status or fitness state". Instead of taking part in United's winter training camp in Spain during the World Cup, Sancho was placed on an individual training programme in the Netherlands.
The Dutchman says Sancho, who returned to United's Carrington training ground this week, cannot be rushed back to competitive action.
"I would like to have Jadon back as soon as possible, but I can't force this process," Ten Hag said ahead of United's FA Cup third round tie with Everton on Friday night.
"I will do everything that's in my power but some processes you can't force and this is one of them.
"I also have to show patience although I don't have patience, because we have a lack of opportunities in the front line, players who are available and capable to contribute not only in the Premier League but on the highest standard in football.
"Jadon is one who, when he is fit, he will contribute and we will have an extra option and so we have more chance to win a lot of games."
With Sancho currently on a personal training plan and currently limited to small group sessions, Ten Hag says he will slowly look to reintegrate the 22-year-old into training with the whole senior squad.
"With the physical, there's also a connection of mental," he said.
"I think he's now making good progress on the physical part and that will help him.
"I hope he can return quickly but I can't say how long it will be. In this moment, he is not fit enough, no.
"We have some hurdles to take. I think he's (heading) in a good direction. I can't force this process so I don't do. I would be really happy in the moment if he returned in the squad for team training, that's the next step.
"Football players are not robots. No one is the same, I think for everyone you need an individual approach.
"Sometimes it's good to go away from the place where you're at daily and to get a new fight and spirit. People have a different approach and that can give you the right push to get back on track."
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