Manchester United has been given an early boost by the return of Christian Eriksen, who has recovered from an ankle injury.

Tuesday marked the midfielder’s return to team training after he was expected to be sidelined until late April.

United will again be without Eriksen and Casemiro, who is suspended, when Brentford visits Old Trafford on Wednesday, and their presence has been sorely missed in recent weeks.

Since mid-February, Erik ten Hag’s squad has not won a Premier League match due to a decline in form and a number of cup commitments.

“The midfield department, games will be decided always in the midfield,” said Ten Hag of the importance of Eriksen and Casemiro at his pre-match press conference on Tuesday.

“So, when you miss two quality players, it’s clear but you have a squad and when you don’t have them you still have to win.”

United are in the Europa League quarterfinals, the FA Cup final four, and won the League Cup in February, ending a six-year trophy drought.

Sunday’s 2-0 loss at the hands of Newcastle relegated them to fifth place in the Premier League table.

“We had a very bad performance because the opponent wanted it more than we (did). They were sharper,” added Ten Hag on being beaten at St. James’ Park.

“You can see that in the challenges – we won only 16 from 61 challenges in offence and in defence the opponent beats us 48 from 78 challenges. Then you can’t win a game.”

United suffered a humiliating 4-0 defeat at the hands of Brentford earlier in the season. Ten Hag is seeking revenge against Brentford.

However, he stated that the Red Devils’ performance in cup competitions proves his team is not tiring after a physically demanding few months.

“We beat Fulham (in the FA Cup) – that’s a Premier League opponent.

“We beat Newcastle in the Carabao (League) Cup, it’s a Premier League opponent, so no concern. We know we can beat Premier League teams.”