Ander Herrera has taken a big step forward in his return from injury by returning to light training with Manchester United on Monday.

The Spanish midfielder was ruled out of United’s clash against Sunderland at the weekend after injuring his ankle in training and it left United with very few options in midfield.

Herrera’s injury was a prelude to the disappointing performance against Sunderland and it’s a real boost for United ahead of Burnley next weekend.

With Michael Carrick and Marouane Fellaini already sidelined, Herrera’s injury left Darren Fletcher and Tom Cleverley as the only real options, alongside Anderson, that Louis van Gaal had at his disposal and the duo simply weren’t good enough against Sunderland.

Herrera is the only midfield addition United have made this summer and it’s crucial he is available for selection, so Van Gaal will be very happy to have the Spaniard back in light training.

However, as has always been the case with injuries, rushing players back into playing matches before they have fully recovered can actually be more damaging so Van Gaal and his staff will have to continue monitoring Herrera to ensure his return is done at the right time.