United went to work Tuesday preparing for Saturday’s game at New England with defender Romain Metanire back from duty with his Madagascar national team – and they did so outside for the first time this winter/spring.

They trained on the National Sports Center’s turf field to get ready for a game on turf Saturday and did so under a warm sun but in chilly morning air.

Can the opening of outdoor Allianz Field be that far behind?

Coach Adrian Heath supervised Tuesday after he had a tugged a stocking cap tight down over his head, turned his coat color up against his neck. He wore gloves, too.

“Although the way we’re wrapped up, you wouldn’t think it but it’s nice to get some fresh air and a bit of sun and get out of the indoors,” he said. “Hopefully, we’re on the turn.”

Darwin Quintero, Romario Ibarra and Jan Gregus are due back with the team on Tuesday. Francisco Calvo and Rasmus Schuller will either meet the team near Boston on Friday or in Blaine on Thursday.

Others stuff from today's training: