SullyTalkz EXCLUSIVE: Patrick Dorgu is closing in on a return to first-team training as the Danish star targets a return to action when Manchester United host Liverpool in early May.
Manchester United enter the final stretch of the Premier League season with five tough games remaining in their quest for Champions League football.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS deem Champions League football a priority, and Michael Carrick’s side are well on their way to accomplishing this goal as they sit third in the Premier League table with 58 points.
Due to Chelsea's recent loss against Brighton & Hove Albion, the club now need just five more points from their final five games to secure the return of Europe's elite competition to Old Trafford.
The Red Devils will not only have financial benefits from entering Europe’s greatest competitions, but the appeal to new players looking to join will be monumental.
This summer window could define United’s future for the upcoming years, so there is zero room for error when it comes to bringing in quality incomings to improve the squad.
Carrick will want his best squad available for the next five games, so this is a great opportunity for injured players to return to the side.
Sources: Dorgu aiming for return vs Liverpool
Patrick Dorgu was in fine form during Michael Carrick's first two games, impressing off the left and scoring a stunning goal in a 3-2 win over Arsenal, which was on the back of the net in the Manchester derby.
However, the outing at the Emirates Stadium ended on a sour note as he pulled his hamstring while chasing after a ball over the top and was ruled out for at least ten weeks and has missed every game since.
Roundtable understands that Patrick Dorgu is targeting a return for the Liverpool game on Sunday, 3 May.
Further, the Danish international is expected to resume group training soon as he nears a return from injury.
What could Dorgu’s return mean to the side?
Manchester United face a tough Brentford side on Monday, 27 April, after their 1-0 win away from home against Chelsea last week.
While it’s not impossible for Dorgu to return for this game, it's considered less likely by those familiar with the situation. Dorgu’s return will be massive for the Red Devils, given his versatility and fine form before his unfortunate injury.
The 21-year-old Danish full-back had impressed in Carrick’s first two matches in charge of Man Utd after scoring against both Manchester City and Arsenal.
The Denmark international can provide competition for Luke Shaw at left back and for Matheus Cunha at left wing. His return will excite the United fanbase.