Erik ten Hag speaks out on Mason Greenwood after months of silence

Greenwood was arrested at his home in January last year amid a series of allegations against the Bradford-born forward.

He was later suspended by Manchester United, who confirmed he would not "return to training or play matches until further notice".

After being released on bail, the 21-year-old was later charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault occasioning actual bodily harm.

Greenwood was due to stand trial later this year but it was announced in February by Greater Manchester Police (GMP) that all charges against him had been dropped.

He released a statement following the news, saying: "I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time."

Manchester United soon released a statement saying they would conduct an internal investigation to 'determine next steps' after the charges were dropped.

Three months on from that news and Greenwood's future remains uncertain as United consider whether he should continue his career at Old Trafford.

In an interview with Henry Winter of The Times this week, United boss Erik ten Hag commented on the future of Greenwood for the first time since February.

Ten Hag says the striker, who has scored 36 goals in 130 appearances for the Premier League club, has "showed in the past that he is capable of doing that” front role.

The Dutch manager also emphasised it is not his decision as to whether he returns.

Before answering the question on Greenwood, Ten Hag said he needed another player in his squad capable of easing the goal-scoring burden on Marcus Rashford.

He said: “What we need besides Marcus Rashford is one extra player with scoring abilities whether it’s coming out of our own squad or we have to sign one.”

Ten Hag when asked by @henrywinter on Mason Greenwood future: “He has showed in the past that he is capable of scoring goals”. 🔴 #MUFC

…but emphasises it’s “not my decision as to whether he returns”. pic.twitter.com/BkIXSVmMla

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) May 29, 2023

 Back in February, when he was last asked about the Greenwood situation, Ten Hag said: "No. Nothing. I can't add nothing, I refer to the statement of the club.

"As I said, in this moment, I can't give comment about the process. I can't say anything about it, I refer to the statement of the club and at this moment I can't add anything."

The Guardian claim that United staff are split over whether he should be welcomed back despite the charges against him being dropped.