Since returning to Manchester United in December to stay fit, veteran goalie Joe Lewis has occasionally participated in first-team practices.

Before Christmas, the Manchester Evening News disclosed that Lewis had been attending Carrington’s academy training to stay in shape following the expiration of his Aberdeen contract.

Lewis reportedly requested to come in and train with one of the United coaches. He participated in first-team practice this week to make up ground ahead of Sunday’s matchup with Aston Villa, as per the terms of their agreement.

Lewis participated in the practice along with backup goalkeepers Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton, who were among the players who did not start against West Ham.

Lewis primarily trains with the academy and is not under contract with United, according to sources. It is acknowledged that when they require additional “keepers,” he jumps up to first-team training.

When more personnel were needed during this season’s senior training sessions, young athletes Dermot Mee and Kie Plumley participated as well.

Lewis played for Aberdeen for seven years, starting over 250 games. However, he left in the summer, one season ahead of schedule, having lost his starting position.

Heaton’s contract is about to expire, thus United will probably recruit a new custodian at the end of the current campaign. In June, Heaton, 37, agreed to a one-year contract extension.