Man United ‘could postpone decision on Mason Greenwood’s future until AFTER international break in September’ as they consult female players, sponsors and fan groups

According to reports, Manchester United may now postpone their decision on Mason Greenwood’s future at the club until September.

The striker has been the subject of an internal investigation at United since the prosecution dropped the case against the player for attempted rape, assault and coercion.

The case was dropped in February after the CPS ruled there was no “realistic prospect of a conviction” after key witnesses withdrew their cooperation.

However, over the course of the summer, reports began to suggest that the player might be reintegrated into the playing squad, and the player had been filmed in training in an attempt to regain match fitness, with clubs also monitoring his situation.

It was thought Greenwood could be close to a return to the group after the findings of the six-month investigation were handed over to CEO Richard Arnold, with a consultation of women’s team players on World Cup duty set up to ratify a move.

Erik ten Hag’s side have not reassigned the number 11 shirt, with reports previously suggesting a return to the first team could be at stake

The club will consult some of their current Down Under players, including Lionesses Mary Earps (left) and Ella Toone (centre)

Yet the athletics now reports that there could be further delays in a decision on the player’s immediate future, insinuating relief may not come until at least the September international break.

The club would have been happy to discuss any reintegration efforts with stakeholders and was willing to wait for such talks to take place rather than meeting any imposed deadlines.

The player is suspended for 18 months and his original arrest took place in January 2022.

But a move to set up talks with the women’s team is believed to be an indication that the investigation has found the player fit to return to the team.

It is considered likely that any indication from the club’s women’s team that they would oppose a return would mean the player’s association with United would be terminated.

However, female fans have already expressed their displeasure at the suggestion that Greenwood could return, announcing their intention to protest the striker ahead of their first game of the season on Monday.

A group calling itself Female Fans Against Greenwood’s Return released a statement on Friday saying, “The situation is clear – taking back Greenwood legitimizes and normalizes sexual assault and domestic violence.

“It tells other players, and the men and boys who look up to them, that abusing women is acceptable, without consequences, and that it won’t affect you or derail your career.”

Greenwood has an internal investigation into his future after rape and assault charges against him were dropped in February

A group launched a Twitter account and released a statement outlining their opposition to Greenwood ever playing for the club again

Another group, The 1958, will hold new anti-Glazer protests Monday over the owners’ refusal to sell.

Asked about the unrest on Friday, manager Erik ten Hag said: “I’m sure the fans will support the team.”

The striker’s last game for United was in the 1-0 Premier League win over West Ham on 22 January 2022. His last goal came in a 3-1 win over Brentford three days earlier.

Greenwood’s number 11 squad number has not been reassigned. His only appearance for the England national team came against Iceland in September 2020.