Manchester United centre-back Rhys Bennett close to return from injury

Manchester United youngster Rhys Bennett is close to a return to full training as he continues to recover from injury.

Bennett, 19, played the second half of the opening pre-season friendly against Leeds in Oslo on July 12 and he picked up a 'minor injury' in that appearance, which denied him the opportunity of making United's USA tour squad.

It's understood Bennett has made progress in his recovery and that he's now close to a return to full training again.

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"After a positive start back on the pitch, I have picked up a minor injury. Hopefully soon back out there playing," the player wrote on social media after picking up his injury in the 2-0 friendly victory against Leeds.

It was announced at the end of July that Bennett had signed a new contract in recognition of his progress in the academy. The defender is highly regarded by club staff and he captained the FA Youth Cup-winning team in 2021/22.

Bennett is a natural centre-back and he grew up in Denton. He made 14 appearances for the Under-21s last season and he was included in the first-team matchday squad for a Premier League clash against Nottingham Forest in December.

The defender has previously said it's his dream to represent United. "Coming up through the ranks at United, it’s obviously a dream to play at Old Trafford. It’s just an amazing feeling to step out on the pitch and give it our all," Bennett said.

"It’s an unbelievable experience. I can’t take it for granted. You don’t know how many times you’re going to step out at Old Trafford. Every single time you do you’ve got to just embrace it, go and give your all and hopefully keep working hard to play as many games at Old Trafford as possible.