The hopes of a nation could rely on four former Manchester United players

The international break looks like it could be more of a blessing than a curse for Manchester United this time around.

While a two-week wait for their next match might have halted some momentum after the dramatic comeback win over Brentford, the pause does at least allow more time for an injury-ridden squad to get closer to full health.

It means there could be a fresh feel about United when they finally return to action at Bramall Lane a week on Saturday, but in the meantime, the chance to watch international sides in action could be a welcome distraction for most.

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There will obviously be plenty of attention on the current United stars looking to star for their country this week, though just as intriguing is the prospect of four former players who could hold the key to their nation's hopes.

United have always had close links with the Welsh national side, from the trickery of Billy Meredith to the scoring feats of Mark Hughes and the record-breaking appearances of Ryan Giggs.

In recent years, the success hasn't quite been the same at Old Trafford, but it is testament to the club's production line that four familiar faces will be representing the nation this week.

Daniel James was the right player at the wrong time for United when he joined four years ago, a player who could have enjoyed a squad role but was instead well out of his depth as a regular starter.

The 25-year-old never progressed with his technical ability as much as the club would have hoped by the time they sold him to Leeds after just two years, but it would have been interesting to see how his fitness levels and pressing abilities would have