Is Jose Mourinho softening up? Is he going mad? Or is he getting desperate?
Whatever's happening, there's some brighter news for Manchester United fans this morning: Bastian Schweinsteiger is BACK in training with the club's first team.
He's back, dammit! Basti is back! #MUFC pic.twitter.com/1kHiTp3zED
This, after an apparent Mourinho-enforced exile for the duration of his spell in charge as manager to date. United posted a tweet early on Monday with some pictures of the first team's training session,and there he was, the former German international, following behind also-exiled Wayne Rooney as the players walked out onto the Carrington pitch.
It's been a sad few months, football-wise anyway, for the world champions' old skipper. He's been present at United's games, in the stands, and sending out pictures of him looking really happy to be backing the team. That's in spite of the fact he's been absolutely nowhere near first team matters, at all.
Back to work for #MUFC! pic.twitter.com/laCEkCnqOc
He's not been in the official squad photo for the season. He's just been shunted out on his arse, and his contract has essentially been written off in United's financial results for the year. But maybe times are a-changing at United.
Credit to you Basti, what a top pro. This club doesn't deserve you.
Oh @BSchweinsteiger it's so good to see you smiling and out training @ManUtd pic.twitter.com/VvLIDkXrr9
@ManUtd Bastian!!!!! pic.twitter.com/PVzhb9W5Sf
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