Man Utd youngster Chong out for up to five months with groin injury

Manchester United youngster Tahith Chong has returned to the club after sustaining a groin injury on loan duty with Birmingham City that will rule him out for up to five months.

The 21-year-old has impressed during his third spell away from Old Trafford, having previously spent time with Werder Bremen and Club Brugge last season.

Chong had been a regular for Birmingham in the Championship, starting 13 of their 16 matches and assisting a couple of goals from midfield.

However, the former Netherlands Under-21s international has had his loan at St. Andrew’s Trillion Trophy Stadium cut short by an injury sustained in training.

A statement on United’s official website on Wednesday read: “Tahith has undergone surgery to repair a ruptured thigh tendon. 

“The operation went well, and he will return to Manchester United to complete an expected four-to-five-month rehabilitation.”

@TahithC will return to the club after suffering an injury during his loan spell.

We know you’ll come back stronger, Chongy! #MUFC

— Manchester United (@ManUtd) November 3, 2021

Chong, who signed a new two-year deal with United in March 2020 with the option of a further year amid interest from Barcelona and Juventus, took to Twitter following confirmation of his lay-off.

“As a player, it hurts to be telling you guys this but, unfortunately, that’s life and that’s football,” he posted.

“I have picked up an injury and will be out for a while. I would like to thank everyone at Birmingham City Football Club for everything they have done for me [in the] past couple of months. 

“The players, staff and everyone involved has made me feel very welcoming from day one. The coach has helped me a lot and showed a lot of confidence in me, something I will not forget.

“A special mention to the fans that, from day one, have supported me in a way that has helped me massively. Focus on recovery now and coming back stronger.”

Chong has made 16 senior appearances for United in all competitions, five of those coming in the Premier League.