After an underwhelming season at Manchester United, Jadon Sancho may worry his future could be away from Old Trafford but the winger can reignite his career by heeding some historic advice.
Sancho has struggled with a number of injuries since his £73million arrival from Borussia Dortmund two years ago, and his fitness was a concern again during Erik ten Hag's first year in charge. The 23-year-old was absent from the first-team picture for two months part-way through the campaign, undergoing an individual training programme in the Netherlands.
His return in the new year was hoped to signal a fresh start, and despite a promising first few weeks back - he scored against Leeds United in his first Premier League game back - impact was limited. Dortmund reportedly tabled a loan offer over the weekend, and while that is also said to have been rejected by United, they are claimed to be open to a permanent sale.
Like so many around Old Trafford, Sancho's future is up in the air as Ten Hag sanctions a major clearout. But the England international will have the chance to stake his claim for a place in next season's plans, and he has already been told how to do so.
"I think it's in his own hands," Ten Hag said after Sancho scored against Leeds in February. "So if he wants, he can do [it] and this team is great to play in and will give you joy.
"I really enjoy seeing him playing the way he did, with so much confidence, so much belief, really direct. It was great to see him play in this attack.
"He's in the right direction and I hope he can keep this momentum going. I'm sure it'll strengthen him and motivate him to do even more.
"As you see, he's a brilliant footballer and if he invests and he is in the right levels then he can perform outstandingly. I think we now have a team that can dictate games more in the opponent's half - he likes that.
"He can play in tight areas and he can make the difference. The second goal shows it but also when he came on last week we saw that as well."
United's need to prioritise strengthening other areas - namely a goalkeeper and striker - means a new winger is unlikely, therefore improving Sancho's chances of being retained. He may well be handed another chance to fulfil his potential at Old Trafford, with the hope of a full and productive pre-season under his belt.
Should the winger still be at United come August and the start of the next campaign, then it is vital he remembers Ten Hag's advice.
[manchestereveningnews]