Anthony Martial returns to Manchester United training ahead of Europa League clash with Real Sociedad

Manchester United have been handed a major boost after Anthony Martial returned to training.

The Frenchman looked a key player under Erik ten Hag during preseason, though has been limited to only four competitive appearances since the start of the campaign.

A combination of hamstring, Achilles and back problems have ruled him out of action and the 26-year-old’s last appearance came during the win over Everton, with Marcus Rashford and Cristiano Ronaldo deputising up front.

Having scored three times while registering two assists despite his injury-hit season, the United boss will be delighted to have Martial back before the World Cup.

With eyes on the top four, United have favourable-looking games against Aston Villa and Fulham before the Premier League grinds to a halt for the winter World Cup in Qatar.

United head to Real Sociedad on Thursday looking to win their Europa League group and thereby skipping a play-off with a team who drop down from the Champions League group stages.

Should ten Hag’s side beat the La Liga outfit by two goals or more, they will progress as group winners.