Democratic Republic of the Congo's forward Dieumerci Mbokani (L) heads the ball with Ivory Coast's defender Eric Bailly during the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations group C football match between Ivory Coast and DR Congo in Oyem on January 20, 2017. / AFP PHOTO / ISSOUF SANOGO

Manchester United fear Eric Bailly could be facing a spell on the sidelines after limping out of his first game for the club this year, as per the Sun.

Bailly started in Man United’s reserve match with Everton on Monday night following his return from the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations in Gabon.

His anticipated comeback from United fans lasted just 58 minutes after taking a knock to his ankle.

His ankle was checked and taped up by club doctors but later returned to the bench to watch the Toffees claim a 3-1 victory.

Bailly, 22, hasn’t played since United’s 2-1 win over Middlesbrough on the final day of last year.