Manchester United starlet Joel Castro Pereira has returned to the club following a loan spell at Rochdale.

The 19-year-old, who signed a new deal with United in August, initially joined the League One side on a month-long loan in October. He returned to Old Trafford in November after making just one appearance, with Rochdale boss Keith Hill suggesting at the time his return was prompted by an inability to promise the youngster the first team appearances he desired.

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Nonetheless, Pereira, a Portugal Under-19 international, returned to the club for a second spell that was set to run until 3 January. He returns to Manchester having made eight appearances for The Dale.

A statement on Rochdale's website said: "We'd like to thank Joel for his efforts and his contribution, as well as wishing him the very best of luck for the future."

Hill has been vocal in his praise for the young Belgian, praising his "remarkable" passing range and composure. He admitted he was disappointed to see the upcoming custodian leave Spotland Stadium. "He has returned to Manchester and disappointingly so, may I add," Hill told Rochdale's official website after his first return.

"He's an excellent player, I love him to bits and he suits me as a manager with the type of goalkeeper that he is – he's very flamboyant, very risque and very confident."

Pereira will be eligible to play in United's next Under-21 fixture, at home to Tottenham Hotspur on Monday 4 January 2016 at Leigh Sports Village.