United's squad 'are split over Mason Greenwood returning to the fold'

Manchester United’s squad ‘are split over Mason Greenwood returning to the fold’ after his charges of attempted rape, coercive control and assault were dropped by the CPS

JULIAN BOVILL FOR MAILONLINE

Manchester United‘s squad are reported to be split over whether or not Mason Greenwood should return to the fold. 

Greenwood, 21, was charged with attempted rape, controlling and coercive behaviour and assault in October last year. He was suspended by United and has not appeared or trained with the club since then. 

The charges were dropped earlier this month with the Crown Prosecution Service (CPS) citing a ‘withdrawal of key witnesses and new material that came to light’, developments that meant there was ‘no longer a realistic prospect of conviction’ They added that they had a ‘duty’ not to proceed with the case in such circumstances. 

The report states that some of the members of the squad harbour concerns about his return, as is reported to be the case with the women’s team, while some possess no objections to Greenwood being welcomed back. 

United themselves said they will ‘conduct’ their own ‘process before determining the next steps’. Greenwood remains prohibited from training or playing for the club while this process is ongoing. It is reported that it could stretch on for months. 

Among the women’s squad, who share the Carrington base with the men, opinion is said to be that Greenwood should not be allowed to return. It is reported that some commercial partners also harbour reservations about him being brought back. 

The player released a statement after the CPS announced their decision, writing: ‘I am relieved that this matter is now over and I would like to thank my family, loved ones and friends for their support. There will be no further comment at this time.’

United have remained tight-lipped over their next steps in the days and weeks following the decision by the CPS. 

Erik ten Hag, asked about the case of Greenwood in his press conference the day after the charges were dropped, referred people to the statement put out by the club. 

‘I can’t add anything, I refer to the statement of the club,’ he said.