Manchester United have confirmed Matthijs de Ligt has undergone successful surgery on a back issue.

The Dutch centre-back has made only 16 appearances for United this season and has not featured since a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on November 30.

United confirmed on Friday that a corrective procedure had been deemed to be the best course of action for the 26-year-old, who will miss Netherlands’ campaign at the World Cup as a result.

But De Ligt is staying upbeat as he targets a return early in the 26-27 season for United.

“Since November I have done everything, pushing myself in every session and exploring every option, to get back to doing what I love, playing football,” De Ligt told United’s official website.

“I am grateful to everyone who has supported me throughout a difficult period in my career. I remain as determined as ever to represent Manchester United and play in front of our incredible supporters as soon as possible.”

De Ligt also posted on his Instagram account: “After six months of treatment and working hard to get back, surgery was the only option left.

“I’m disappointed I couldn’t help the team the last six months and obviously missing out on the World Cup, but I am looking forward to doing everything to get back in front of the fans and feeling better again.”