The manager and players had been expecting to reintegrate the 21-year-old forward into the squad this week.

2

2

But when news of that prospect leaked out, the backlash forced a U-turn from the club.

On Monday, they announced it was best for all parties that Greenwood continued his career away from Old Trafford.

So Ten Hag gathered his squad together yesterday to explain the reasons behind the decision.

The Dutchman also welcomed any feedback from the players.

Greenwood and United chief executive Richard Arnold agreed his presence would provide an unwanted distraction.

The striker has been suspended by the club since he was arrested in January 2022.

Charges against him of attempted rape, assault and coercive control were dropped in February this year.

The Red Devils completed their own internal investigation, which concluded Greenwood had not committed any of the crimes he was initially charged with.

But the stench of the case would not go away and United found the position untenable.

Greenwood has been left disappointed by the change in stance having been training in preparation for his return.

And the new dad is now in limbo as he does not fancy a move abroad — but so far there has been no interest from any clubs in England.

The situation is one the new owners will have to resolve, with Sheikh Jassim’s takeover growing ever closer.

A £6billion bid from the Qatari banker is about to be accepted by the Glazer family.

An announcement is expected next month ahead of a full takeover in mid-to-late October.