Tyrell Malacia is back: Forgotten Man Utd star makes return from 17-month injury layoff in 4-1 loss to Huddersfield in EFL Trophy

Malacia was back in action for the Red Devils for the first time since March 2023 after a nightmare time out with injury. The left-back started for the Under-21s in a 4-1 defeat to Huddersfield in the EFL Trophy and played 45 minutes of the match before being replaced by youngster Harry Amass.

The return of Malacia will be a huge boost to Manchester United and new head coach Ruben Amorim. Left-back has been a problem position for the Red Devils, with Luke Shaw too spending a long time on the sidelines because of injury. The England defender is also closing in on a comeback after returning to training with United following three months out. Amorim has now arrived at United and is set to start his new job shortly when his work permit arrives. The head coach is thought to favour a 3-4-3 formation, using wing-backs, meaning the availability of both Shaw and Malacia could be important to his system.

Malacia's last game for United was 534 days ago when he featured in a 2-1 win against Fulham in the Premier League. Since then, he has battled through several injuries but appears to be nearing a return to first-team action.

Malacia is set to continue his recovery on his way back to full fitness. Meanwhile, Amorim is set to take charge of the Red Devils for the first time against Ipswich on November 24.