Erik ten Hag sent Manchester United message as returning star threatens to cast big shadow

Alejandro Garancho can show Erik ten Hag how much he can rely on him for next season in the final weeks of Manchester United's season.

The Argentine forward returned from injury, fresh from signing a new five contract, to score the match-clinching goal against Wolves on Saturday. It was an assured finish from the 18-year-old, who was back on the pitch for the first time since March.

United's injury problems have been well documented; particularly their issues in central defence. Garanacho's absence has not been in the spotlight given Ten Hag's options out wide. It is perhaps the strongest, or certainly deepest, area of the United squad - Antony and Marcus Rashford hold the starting positions right now with Jadon Sancho and Garnacho in reserve.

READ ALSO: Alejandro Garnacho might have changed his role at Manchester United after Wolves goal

Sancho has the ability to play on either side though his preference is clearly to play inverted on the left. Not the role United had pigeonholed him for when they paid their money to Borussia Dortmund.

It would be quite easy to lower expectations on Garanacho, as a result, but he has the chance to disrupt the pecking order. Sancho has not set the world alight and with Amad expected to fight for a first-team place on the right next season, there is plenty of competition.

United are on course for Champions League football. They have a four-point buffer over Liverpool with three Premier League matchdays to overcome. They are two wins away from Europe's elite club competition.

Next season, Ten Hag will have to rely heavily on his squad. Rotation will be natural as United flip from domestic to European commitments in a jam-packed schedule.

So how much can they rely on Garnacho? What will