Manchester United have delivered a major fitness boost ahead of their final home game of the season, confirming that midfield linchpin Casemiro is back in training and likely to feature against Nottingham Forest this Sunday.

The Brazilian maestro was notably absent from last weekend's drab goalless draw with Sunderland at the Stadium of Light, sparking concerns among the Old Trafford faithful. Without his commanding presence in the middle of the park, manager Michael Carrick turned to a midfield duo of Kobbie Mainoo and Mason Mount, but the latter struggled to replicate the impact Casemiro has consistently delivered this season.

United initially revealed that Casemiro was not deemed ready for selection against the Black Cats, hinting at a minor fitness issue. Carrick had remained cautiously optimistic, suggesting the 32-year-old could return for the visit of Vitor Pereira's side.

Those hopes have now been realized. The club confirmed that Casemiro trained with his teammates at Carrington on Wednesday afternoon, alongside Manuel Ugarte, who was also sidelined with a back problem for the Sunderland trip. A club statement read: "Manchester United midfielder Casemiro has returned to training at Carrington, after missing the goalless draw at Sunderland. Manuel Ugarte was also present, after suffering a back problem, prior to the visit to the Stadium of Light."

Carrick is expected to provide further clarity on both players' availability during his pre-match press conference on Friday.

Sunday's clash carries extra emotional weight for Casemiro, who has confirmed he will leave United at the end of the season upon the expiry of his contract. The five-time Champions League winner will likely bid an emotional farewell to the Old Trafford crowd, having previously admitted he expects to be fighting back tears. It promises to be a poignant send-off for a player who has brought immense experience and quality to the United midfield during his time at the club.