Two players’ permanent first-team status under Ruben Amorim is hinted at by Man Utd’s training.

At Manchester United, the past few days have been dominated by off-field events, but now it’s game day again.

When Manchester United hosts Real Sociedad at Old Trafford for the second leg of their Europa League match, it is likely to be the most significant match of the season.

United must overcome their nightmares at the Theatre of Dreams and advance in the only cup tournament they are still in, with the match firmly poised at 1-1.

The return of Mason Mount and Manuel Ugarte helped Manchester United train ahead of the crucial match.

But if what transpired during the session was any indicator, the future of the other two youngsters is most likely set as first-team members now.

The two new first-team players for Manchester United

The players, all grinning and eager to welcome Mount back into the battle, followed Ruben Amorim as he made his way to the field to begin the workout.

Mount and Ugarte were requested to pass through a lane with players on either side prepared to “greet” them with slaps in jest, as is common under Amorim for players returning from injury.

It was intriguing to observe, though, that in addition to the two, Chido Obi and Ayden Heaven also received this first-team treatment.

This may indicate that both are now regarded as regular first-team players who practice with the team and are anticipated to be included in matchday squads when available.

Although Diogo Dalot and Andre Onana were also given the “slaps” for unspecified reasons, it is nevertheless encouraging that the former Arsenal duo was included among well-known first-team players.

Heaven was elevated to the first team, but if this is the so, it’s especially noteworthy for Chido Obi, who has essentially been absent from U21 football since arriving only last summer.