Ten Hag optimism and star's pledge - Leny Yoro Man United injury update ahead of Aston Villa clash

Manchester United fans are counting down the days until they get to see their summer signing Leny Yoro compete for the club competitively after a frustrating start to his time in the North West.

Having been picked to start against Arsenal during pre-season, Yoro suffered an unfortunate foot fracture which has kept him sidelined ever since. In his absence, United have not necessarily been terrible defensively but this week has raised questions about Erik ten Hag's backline.

Against Tottenham Hotspur and Porto, United conceded three goals in disappointing circumstances. In the most recent Europa League clash, both Lisandro Martinez and Matthijs de Ligt were replaced after conceding goals which they may have done better to prevent.

READ MORE: Ratcliffe breaks silence on Ten Hag

READ MORE: United injury news and return dates ahead of Villa

Harry Maguire came off the bench in Portugal to have an immediate impact, scoring the last gasp leveller to potentially offer the Reds' manager some respite. But this will not have stopped fans from wondering when Yoro could be back for consideration.

When last asked about the Frenchman's fitness at the end of last month, Ten Hag offered an optimistic appraisal of the situation. "Yes, he is doing very well," United's boss told the media.

"It is very pleasing that his rehab is going in the right direction and I expect him soon, but what I mean by soon, is that he is now in the right planning process. He is in the right spot and he will return as soon as possible into the squad and then the team training."

In reality, Yoro and United fans may have to be patient for his return onto the pitch. It still appears that the defender could return before the end of 2024 but perhaps December is more likely than October or November.

Once he does return to the pitch, Yoro has already pledged what fans can expect from him. "I try to be intelligent on the pitch, to play with my head, to understand the game, the opponent," he told TNT Sports.

"And to be calm. Be calm with the ball, when I defend.

"When I was in Lille, every weekend I was looking at clips of the striker to understand the movements, how he wants to receive the ball. This helps a lot."

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