Man United fans loved the moment between Erik ten Hag and a smiling Jadon Sancho before he came on

Manchester United fans loved the moment between Erik ten Hag and a smiling Jadon Sancho just before he came on against Nottingham Forest.

Sancho has been out of action for Man United, with Ten Hag citing 'physical and mental' issues.

But he made his first appearance since October in his side's 2-0 win over Forest on Wednesday.

Just after the hour mark, Ten Hag brought on Sancho who had a beaming smile on his face as he waited to enter the fray.

The Dutch boss had a brief chat with the 22-year-old on the touchline as chants of 'Sancho, Sancho' rang around Old Trafford.

Erik ten Hag and Jadon Sancho speak on the touchline. Image: Alamy

The moment between Ten hag and Sancho didn't go unnoticed among Man United fans as they took to social media to praise their manager.

One Twitter user wrote: "Sancho smiling with Ten Hag yh it's time to cook."

A second tweeted: "Sancho’s smile and Ten Hag’s little encouragement is all I needed to see."

A third added: "Ten Hag with Sancho right there is why I love him as manager."

A fourth commented: "Look at the smiles. Ten Hag buzzing to have him back. Sancho buzzing to be back. Great stuff all around."

Another said: "Things you love to see."

After Sancho replaced Antony, Man United went onto score two goals to secure a 5-0 aggregate win over Forest to book their spot in the Carabao Cup final.

Second-half substitute Anthony Martial opened the scoring in the 73rd minute as Fred doubled their advantage three minutes later.

Man United will face Newcastle United in the final at Wembley Stadium on February 26.

Sancho could return to Premier League action on Saturday when Man United resume their league campaign against Crystal Palace.