Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick finally on road to first-team return

Michael Carrick is closing in on his long-awaited Manchester United comeback.

RECOVERY: Carrick has had an ankle problem since the summer months which has kept him out of action

The England star has been sidelined since the summer with an ankle problem.

He was forced to undergo an operation in July and has not figured since Louis Van Gaal became United boss.

His absence has been a blow to the Dutchman as he has battled to make his mark at Old Trafford.

But Carrick has stepped-up training and is on course to make a return after the international break.

He is understood to be doing ball work now and could figure as a substitute for United at West Brom on October 20.

Van Gaal is also hopeful defenders Phil Jones and Chris Smalling will return, although Jonny Evans is not expected back for that game.

United are also without midfield trio Ander Herrera, Ashley Young and Jesse Lingard, as well as young striker James Wilson.

So Carrick's comeback will be a welcome boost for Van Gaal and some rare good news on the injury front.