Anthony Martial returns to Manchester United team training after injury

Manchester United have confirmed that striker Anthony Martial returned to first-team training at the club's Carrington training complex on Monday.

The Frenchman, who has scored three goals this season, has missed United's last six matches with a back injury. After earning his first start of the season, he was forced off less than half an hour into the Reds' 2-1 win over Everton at Goodison Park earlier this month.

That setback marked a third injury of the season already for Martial, following hamstring and Achilles injuries earlier this term. He has played just four times in all competitions this season.

But despite his lack of availability, he has been excellent when fit, scoring three goals and recording two assists. His injury luck has haunted him and starved United of a player who has looked revitalised under Erik ten Hag's management.

Ahead of Thursday's crunch Europa League clash with Real Sociedad in Spain, Martial has started to train with the team again, offering hope that he is close to a return. Ten Hag will likely provide an update on his fitness when he conducts his pre-match press conference on Wednesday.

Issuing an update on Martial last week, Ten Hag said: "He's making progress, he's outside, he's working there, he's on the pitch and we're waiting for his step back in team training. 

He had a setback as he fell out against Everton with his back. He's had some injuries, it's really frustrating for us but also for him. We've seen him play well in pre-season.

"He's had less minutes but he's scored already three goals. Against Everton, he had an important role with the first goal, his assist for Antony. 

It would be good to have him back because he can make the difference and score goals, but also linking up he's really important and his pressing is really good."