Manchester United: Michael Carrick Preparing for Training Return After Injury

Manchester United manager Louis van Gaal has revealed the club's injury plight is set to be eased with Michael Carrick among four players to have returned to light training.

Carrick, who hasn't played this season after suffering an ankle injury in pre-season, Ashley Young (groin), Chris Smalling (hamstring) and Phil Jones (hamstring) have all resumed training as they attempt to return to the first team.

Meanwhile, midfielder Anderson and defenders Jesse Lingard and Jonny Evans are also close to a return to training as United's lengthy injury list looks set to finally relent.

"It was very disappointing to see Ander Herrera suffering a fractured rib, which has added to our injury list at a time when I thought we were seeing a very dim light at the end of the tunnel in terms of injuries," said Van Gaal.

"Marouane Fellaini is now back in full training, while Ashley Young, Michael Carrick, Chris Smalling and Phil Jones have started to do some light training.

"Anderson is making progress, while I am also pleased to report that Jesse Lingard has had his protective knee brace removed and Jonny Evans' protective boot has also been removed. Both players will return to light training in the coming days.

"After today's match, we have a good two-week period during the international break before our next match, and that will give us some valuable time to try to get these players back into full training and back to full fitness."

A cameo substitute appearance from James Wilson in the 2-1 win over Everton has eased fears over his fitness after he limped out of the Under-21's win over Tottenham last week. The youngster could feature against West Bromwich Albion and Chelsea in the absence of suspended United captain Wayne Rooney.

Herrera became the latest addition to the United treatment table when the club confirmed he suffered a fractured rib against West Ham United, which could see him miss the next few weeks.