Former striker Andy Cole heaped praise on Manchester United youngster Charlie Savage after he stepped off the bench in the Reds' convincing 4-0 win over Liverpool in Bangkok on Tuesday.
United, in their first game under new manager Erik ten Hag, produced a very impressive performance, finding themselves 3-0 up by half-time. Jadon Sancho set the ball rolling, finishing well from inside the penalty area, before quick-fire goals from Fred and Anthony Martial ensured they were out of sight by the break.
Ten Hag, as expected, made wholesale changes at half-time, meaning United had a very different look to themselves after the break. Their second half XI featured several youngsters and fringe players.
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Savage was among those who came on, slotting into midfield alongside Zidane Iqbal and Donny van de Beek. The youngster, who made his senior debut against Young Boys in the Champions League last season, produced a disciplined and measured performance in the holding-midfield berth.
"I was impressed with the young boy being given the opportunity and I thought he did really well," Cole told MUTV, reflecting on Savage's second-half showing. "He was playing against Liverpool.
"I know he has done it when he was against the kids, but this is pre-season and it gives you the chance to try and get to where you want. I thought he did really well when he came on. The higher you go in midfield, you have got to keep the ball and he did exactly that today."
Savage was one of several youngsters who played in the second half, with Facundo Pellistri, who bagged the fourth goal, Iqbal and Amad all featuring. They will be expected to feature again on Friday against Melbourne Victory.
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