TheCable

Zlatan Ibrahimovic says he is back “to finish what he started” after signing a new one-year deal with Manchester United.

Ibrahimovic made 46 appearances and scored 28 goals for the club during the 2016/17 campaign before suffering a knee injury, which ended his season prematurely.

“I am back to finish what I started,” the 35-year-old said.

“It was always mine and the club’s intention for me to stay.

“I cannot wait to get back out on that Old Trafford pitch, but I also know that I have to take my time to make sure that I am ready.

“I have been working hard and will continue to do so to make sure I am in the best possible condition for my return to the pitch.”

Manchester United coach Jose Mourinho said Ibrahimovic will play a major role for the club in the second half of the season.

He said: “We are delighted Zlatan is on the road to recovery and we are equally delighted to have his ambition and experience back with us.

“After his contribution last season he deserves our trust and we will be patient waiting for him to return.

“I have no doubt that he will be important in the second part of the season.”

Ibrahimovic has won championships in four different leagues since beginning his professional career with Malmo in 1999.