Phil Jones also stepping up his recovery from hamstring injury

Manchester United will look to arrange a behind-closed-doors friendly for Michael Carrick this week as he steps up his recovery from injury.

The 33-year-old has been out since July with damaged ankle ligaments and has been working with United's physios in the hope of making the squad to face West Bromwich Albion next Monday.

He has been working with the rehabilitation group, which also includes centreback Phil Jones, and has occasionally joined with the first team for some of their weights and exercise training.

Michael Carrick, in action against Bayern Munich last season, damaged ankle ligaments in pre-season

Carrick, tackling Raheem Sterling (left) at Old Trafford in March, could make his comeback at the Hawthorns

United boss Louis van Gaal was considering making Carrick his captain before the midfielder's injury

Phil Jones (right) is making progress since injuring his hamstring playing for England against Switzerland

COPING WITHOUT CARRICK Michael Carrick has yet to feature for Louis van Gaal's United team this season Premier League results Man United 1 Swansea 2 LOST Sunderland 1 Man United 1 DREW Burnley 0 Man United 0 DREW Man United 4 OPR 0 WON Leicester 5 Man United 3 LOST Man United 2 West Ham 1 WON Man United 2 Everton 1 WON Advertisement

Carrick is seen as a key figure by Louis van Gaal and was under serious consideration to become captain prior to his injury.

The 6ft 2in midfielder signed a one year contract last season with the option of another year and is keen to end his playing career at Old Trafford.

Van Gaal believes his style of play means he can operate as the holding midfielder or at centre half where his passing ability will help United build from the back.