But he has handed Van de Beek just 10 appearances since the start of last season, and he may now sit as low as ninth in the midfield pecking order.

You could argue that Bruno Fernandes, Christian Eriksen, Scott McTominay, Casemiro, Kobbie Mainoo, Hannibal and summer additions Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat will currently be preferred.

Fixtures are coming thick and fast, though, and chances may arise for Van de Beek. He has already proven previously in his career that he can thrive in Ten Hag’s system.

It would be some resurrection, like a phoenix from the ashes, and he could yet depart in the coming days.

That said, the stars may align for the talented player United splashed the cash to sign in 2020 to finally make a surprise impact in English football.

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