Michael Carrick: Carlos Baleba eager to get on the field for Man Utd

The 22-year-old Cameroon international has been sidelined by injury but has now made sufficient progress in his rehabilitation to be considered for selection. However, it remains uncertain whether the midfielder will make the trip to the capital and feature against Fulham.

Baleba, United's latest signing from Brighton & Hove Albion, missed Wednesday's Carabao Cup meeting with his former club, denying him the chance to come up against his old side.

Speaking to MUTV's Mark Sullivan at Carrington, Carrick provided an update on Baleba's condition while also stressing the positive influence the midfielder has already had within the squad.

"We're looking good," said Carrick.

"Everyone's up and running, you know? Over the last week or so, pretty much everyone has played and [been] fit and we're trying to get Carlos back in.

"Well, I say back in, actually introducing him into the group. So he's done a bit of training this week and, hopefully, we'll get Luke [Shaw] back in and around it this week and look forward to a strong game on the weekend."

"Yeah, he's desperate to get started. He's bouncing around the place! It's not always easy, I think, when you come into a new club and you're not right fully in with the group, with the training.

"But he's dealt with that ever so well, I have to say. He's got great personality and he's full of enthusiasm around [the place] and pushing to get back as quickly as possible. So it's great to have him back."

The Fulham fixture represents United's final match before a three-week break, potentially giving Baleba an opportunity to make his competitive debut if he is deemed ready for involvement. 

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