Manchester United given positive update on Birmingham City loan star Tahith Chong

Manchester United attacker Tahith Chong has returned to Birmingham City training after three weeks on the sidelines.

The 22-year-old picked up a hamstring injury against West Brom at the start of the month and has missed the Blues’ last four games. But boss Birmingham Lee Bowyer has now said he is in continental for Saturday’s trip to Cardiff.

Chong was forced to miss four months of his year-long loan with a thigh injury that required surgery, so returned to United to rehabilitate. He played six games for the Championship club when he returned, only to pick up another setback.

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Birmingham will undoubtedly be carefully managing the player for the rest of the campaign to avoid re-triggering his hamstring issue. The winger has impressed onlookers at St Andrew's with his pace, work rate and versatility this season.

The Netherlands Under-21 international has played 19 league games this season, scoring once and assisting a further three goals. Chong has proven very adaptable at Birmingham, playing in a number of positions across the frontline, including centre-forward and attacking midfield.

The youngster’s deal at United runs out in the summer. However, the one-year extension within his contract is expected to be triggered.

Chong has played 16 times for the United first team, including in the memorable Champions League last 16 away leg against PSG in 2019. He’s also provided two assists in the Europa League.

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