Manchester United defender Eric Bailly might return to action sooner than expected and could start playing at the beginning of December.

The Ivory Coast international suffered a lateral knee ligament injury in the 4-0 defeat against Chelsea in September and it was expected that he will not be able to return to action until after the Africa Cup of Nations. However, English news outlet The Sun has reported that the centre-back is in line to hand Jose Mourinho a massive injury boost as he is all set to return to training next week.

The report claimed that the defender is targetting the Europa League tie against Zorya Luhansk on December 8 for his return.

As quoted in the outlet, an United insider said: “The medical staff were impressed with his progress over the recent international break.

“They are refusing to set a comeback date, but Bailly hinted the game on December 8 will be his return.”

The centre-back, who arrived at Old Trafford this term from Villarreal, was a regular in the starting XI before the injury and made 13 appearances in all competitions. In Bailly’s absence, and with Chris Smalling also out of action due to injury, United boss Jose Mourinho has been compelled to play two left-backs – Daley Blind and Marcos Rojo- at the heart of defence. Antonio Valencia’s absence due to a broken arm has also deteriorated at the back for the Red Devils.

The crisis in defence has forced the Portuguese tactician to look for options in the market. With his team languishing sixth in table despite spending heavily in the summer, Mourinho has been desperate for new signings in order to change his team’s fortunes. He was recently linked with Virgil van Dijk and Bayern Munich star David Alaba. Southampton ace Jose Fonte is also heavily linked with the Old Trafford outfit.