Manchester United defender Eric Bailly has admitted that he had to stay "mentally strong" during his prolonged period on the sidelines.

Due to two separate knee injuries, Bailly failed to make a competitive appearance for United between April 28 and February 17.

Although the Ivory Coast international has made five appearances since his return, the centre-back has acknowledged that he did not always find it easy to handle the time away from the pitch.

Speaking to ESPN, the 25-year-old said: "It was such a difficult time. I was basically injured for almost a year and that's the worst thing that can happen to a footballer or any athlete.

"But anyway, as I always say, when something bad happens you have to hope for something good to come your way and during that time, when I was recuperating, I had people that helped me with the physical aspect and my family too.

"I had to be strong, especially mentally strong and I've done it and now all that bad stuff is behind me. Thank goodness for that."

During his time back in action over the past month, United are yet to concede a goal.