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Jose's Bailly boost

Manchester United star Eric Bailly set to give Jose Mourinho a boost by returning from injury early

Centre-half has recovered faster than expected from knee ligament blow and could be back in training next week

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MANCHESTER United boss Jose Mourinho has received major boost with Eric Bailly set to return early from his knee ligament hell.

The Ivory Coast centre-back has been out since United were hammered 4-0 by Chelsea in September.

epa05600076 Manchester United Eric Bailly is being helped as it was reported that he has suffered a 'knee injury' during the English Premier League game between Chelsea and Manchester United at Stamford Bridge in London, Britain, 23 October 2016. EPA/FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 75 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications
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Eric Bailly has been out since September after picking up an injury against ChelseaCredit: EPA

But could be back in training next week after recovering faster than expected and is targeting his comeback against Ukrainian minnows Zorya Luhansk at the start of next month.


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United had feared the 22-year-old would be out until he left for the African Cup of Nations in January.

An Old Trafford 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."

Eric Bailly was substituted off after picking up the injury
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Bailly has been a huge miss for Manchester United boss Jose MourinhoCredit: Reuters

Mourinho is short of centre-backs and has been forced to play midfielder Michael Carrick and flop Marcos Rojo in defence.

Bailly has had an impressive start to his career at United, putting in some strong performances so far this season.

He joined the Red Devils from Villarreal for £30million in the summer and has made 13 appearances.

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