Man Utd boosted by return of nine players from World Cup break

Manchester United training will be much busier again this week with nine of their World Cup stars having returned to the club.

Quarter-final exits for England, Brazil, Portugal and the Netherlands meant the majority of United players who were in Qatar are now back at Carrington training ground.

Harry Maguire and Luke Shaw started every match for England at the World Cup, while Marcus Rashford played fewer minutes but had a greater impact.

Brazil trio Fred, Antony, and Casemiro have also returned after their disappointing exit on penalties to Croatia.

They have been joined by Bruno Fernandes and Diogo Dalot, who were part of the Portugal team who were eliminated by World Cup surprise package Morocco in the last eight. Dutchman Tyrell Malacia completes the strong contingent who has returned to Carrington.

All nine may now be involved in the League Cup fourth round clash with Championship side Burnley on Wednesday, although they will have their fitness assessed before that decision is made.

Meanwhile, centre-backs Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane have been given extended leave of absences after playing in the final on Sunday, with the former currently in Argentina enjoying the celebrations after their first World Cup success in 36 years.

Another man who is also yet to return is Jadon Sancho, who is in the Netherlands undergoing an individual programme.

Manchester United resume their Premier League campaign on December 27 against Nottingham Forest, although that may come too soon for Martinez and Varane to be able to feature.