MATTHIJS DE LIGT is in line for his return to the Manchester United squad after an eleven-month absence.
De Ligt has travelled with United to Madrid for their second Champions League game against Atletico on Tuesday night.
The Dutch defender has not played for United since November 30 due to a back problem that required surgery in May.
United have also named young defender Dan Armer in their travelling squad amid doubts over Luke Shaw and Kobbie Mainoo.
Armer, 18, played for United during pre-season and in last season’s FA Youth Cup final.
It is unclear if Shaw or Mainoo boarded United’s flight when the majority of the players were spotted at Manchester Airport.
Mainoo and Shaw did not train on Monday morning and are both considered doubts.
United have decided not to publish their travelling squad for the European away game, as they have done in the past.
Former Bayern Munich man De Ligt, 27, is returning to a turbulent United side after his extended absence.
The Red Devils lost out on a chance to kick-start their Premier League season with a win after conceding an injury-time equaliser against Spurs on Saturday.
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Dominic Solanke came up with the goal after outmuscling Lisandro Martinez, who drew criticism for the defensive lapse and could soon be put under pressure by his team-mates’ return.
The absence of Mainoo would also cause a shake-up in Michael Carrick‘s midfield.
The England international has formed a partnership with Youri Tielemans this season.
The pairing has come under fire from club legend Gary Neville – but the enforced side-lining of Mainoo is likely not what he had in mind when he claimed the duo should not start together again.