MASON Greenwood could be ‘exposed’ to a grilling in a TV interview if Manchester United reintroduce him to their first-team squad.
The striker, 21, has not played for the club since charges of attempted rape, assault occasioning actual bodily harm and controlling and coercive behaviour were brought against him in October last year.
He remains suspended by the club but all charges against him were dropped in February and he could make a return to Old Trafford if he is cleared by an internal investigation.
Now, though, he could face a TV interview as part of a “phased approach” to his comeback, according to a report in The Athletic.
Sources told the outlet: “Under the scenario Greenwood stays, United would be likely to follow a phased process, taking into account the sentiment of fan groups, sponsors and the women’s team at differing stages.
“It would include encouraging Greenwood to receive a form of counselling or therapy, ahead of a possible broader rehabilitation.
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“It has also been suggested that such an approach may also include exposing Greenwood to a television interview in which he is challenged on the events that have taken him to this point.”
They added that the club “may seek to frame him as a young man who has made mistakes and is remorseful for his actions” and believe they have a responsibility to rehabilitate him.
It comes after The Sun revealed that Greenwood is set to become a father for the first time as his partner has become pregnant.
A source close to the couple said: “They and their families are both very happy and really looking forward to the baby’s arrival.”
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We also reported that he had met club bosses face to face for the first time since the charges against him were dropped as he bids to make his Red Devils return.
The Sun on Sunday previously told how manager Erik ten Hag had held a telephone conversation with Greenwood after the charges were dropped.
Meanwhile, The Sun revealed that the Three Lions ace had secret meetings with his teammates after the case against him was withdrawn.
However, Greenwood’s hopes of a return to Old Trafford were endangered amid opposition from United’s female stars.
The women’s team were said to be “disturbed” by the prospect of his return.
Likewise, female fans of the club said that they felt he should never play for the club again.
Meanwhile, a top sports lawyer said Greenwood may have lost “millions” after being dropped by major sponsors Nike.
A PR expert added that any club taking him on, should United let him go, would take on a huge financial risk.
Despite this, a Champions League team have made “enquiries” over a possible transfer, while Greenwood himself was reported to be eyeing a move abroad to restart his career if he’s dropped by his current club.
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Other European clubs are understood to have enquired about the star and his potential new league was revealed yesterday.
Manchester United declined to comment.
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
