Jose Mourinho confirms Zlatan Ibrahimovic return

Manchester United manager Jose Mourinho has confirmed that Zlatan Ibrahimovic is in the matchday squad to face Newcastle United on Saturday.

The striker has been out of action since April with a long-term knee injury and had been expected to remain on the sidelines until early 2018, but has recovered more quickly than expected and recently returned to full training.

Speaking at his press conference ahead of the game, Mourinho revealed that Ibrahimovic will start on the bench for the visit of the Magpies, having been deemed "ready to play".

Paul Pogba, who has been out with a hamstring injury since September, and defender Marcos Rojo, who has been absent since April due to cruciate surgery, will also be named in the squad.

Talking to MUTV, Mourinho explained: "The players that stayed here and [were] recovering from injuries, even the ones that are recovering from big injuries, they are ready to play."

Speaking earlier this week, Ibrahimovic hinted that he could play in a number 10 role when he returns from injury.