It has been rare in recent years for Manchester United fans to chant Jadon Sancho’s name. On Wednesday evening, however, it echoed through Old Trafford. “Sancho! Sancho!”was heard loudly over the TV microphones as the 22-year-old entered the field in the 63rd minute of the 2-0 win against Nottingham Forest in the Carabao Cup.
It was the end of a long ordeal. Sancho last played for United in October. Then suddenly he was missing from the squad. It was said that he was ill, but his long downtime caused question marks.
In December, when the Red Devils were working hard in the winter training camp in Spain for a successful second half of the season, statements by coach Erik ten Hag made people sit up and take notice. It’s a combination of “physical and mental problems”that affect Sancho’s fitness level and performance. For this reason he did not travel to the training camp. When he comes back, be completely open.
emotional scenes
Now the time had come and everyone involved was happy about Sancho’s comeback. The ex-Dortmunder himself stood smiling on the sidelines shortly before his substitution, the anticipation was written on his face. Even the sometimes grumpy ten Hag did not hide his joy. Even guest coach Steve Cooper – Sancho once played under the 43-year-old in the England U17 national team – gave a long hug after the game.
And how was it sporty? Ten Hag offered the 22-year-old an unfamiliar position in a central role, which obviously suited him well. Sancho acted conspicuously and was involved in many offensive actions in his 27 minutes of play. A comeback to build on.
There was also praise from ten Hag after the game, but what is much more important for the United coach: “The fans gave him love and he enjoyed being back on the pitch. I’ve seen him laugh in training for the past few weeks, hopefully he keeps that smile.”
