Manchester United trio near return?

Chris Smalling, Phil Jones and Ashley Young are all reportedly close to making their return from injuries with Manchester United.

English defenders Smalling and Jones have not featured at all this season because of foot and back problems respectively.

Meanwhile, England winger Young has not featured for the Red Devils since August because of a knee complaint.

However, all three are in contention to be included in the squad that is due to take on Stoke City at Old Trafford on Saturday afternoon, according to the Manchester Evening News.

The trio are all said to have returned to training this week.