Jadon Sancho still 'not fit enough' for Manchester United but Erik ten Hag happy to wait

Erik ten Hag feels patience is paramount when considering Jadon Sancho as the Dutchman admitted there remains no timescale on when the winger will return to action for Manchester United.

Sancho, a £73m signing from Borussia Dortmund 18 months ago, has not featured for United since playing 52 minutes of a 1-1 draw at Chelsea in October and was left out of England's World Cup squad.

Ten Hag said last month that Sancho was "not in the right status or fitness state" and he missed United’s two-match tour of Spain, instead placed on an individual fitness programme in the Netherlands.

The 22-year-old has this week returned to the club’s training ground at Carrington but his involvement has so far been limited to small group sessions as he concentrates on his own personal plan.

Sancho’s continuing absence depletes United’s attacking options but Ten Hag accepts there are processes in place which will ultimately benefit the club and player in the long run.

"I would like to have Jadon back as soon as possible, but I can’t force this process," Ten Hag said. "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."

"I hope he can return quickly but I can't say how long it will be"

Ten Hag, speaking ahead of United’s FA Cup third-round tie against Everton, feels that Sancho is heading in the right direction, adding there is a