Manchester United defender Marcos Rojo is hoping to return from a long-term injury for the Champions League clash with CSKA Moscow on December 5.

The Argentinian has been sidelined since April due to a knee ligament injury and his return will provide a timely boost for the Red Devils ahead of the busy Christmas period.

Rojo had established himself as a regular fixture for United prior to picking up the injury in the Europa League meeting with Anderlecht.

The 27-year-old’s rehabilitation has gone smoothly and he is hoping to feature for the reserves next week as he looks to step up the intensity.

United, who are priced at 13.00 to win the Champions League. have made a positive start to the season without Rojo and will secure progression to the knockout stages of the Champions League by claiming a point against Basel.

The versatile defender is targeting their following game in the competition, against CSKA Moscow, for his potential comeback when the pressure could be completely off.

“[On Wednesday] I am going to play with the reserves in a friendly match,” Rojo told TyC Sports. “I feel good.

Up until now, I have not had any problems, but training is not the same as a match.

“In three weeks we have a Champions League game and if all goes well, I could play in that.”

Rojo has also stressed the importance of getting back into the first XI as he looks to fulfil his dream of appearing at a World Cup.

He added: “I have to win my place back in the team so that Jorge Sampaoli considers me for the World Cup.

“I have been out a while but I am determined to get back into the national team. I want to show Sampaoli how good I am.”