Manchester United continue to step up their pre-season preparations at Carrington and the club's biggest names have yet to lace up their boots this summer.
With five-time Ballon d'Or winner Cristiano Ronaldo and other players involved in the June internationals to return before an upcoming tour to Thailand, Australia and Norway, there has been a rather youthful feel to these opening sessions under Erik ten Hag. Indeed, his initial group included 28 players with 18 academy graduates.
As such, there has been a golden opportunity for the next generation to enjoy priceless time with Ten Hag before his attentions are, naturally, shifted to Ronaldo and co. Here are four things that Manchester Evening News spotted on day four at Carrington including a moment to savour for Charlie Savage.
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Ten Hag shares moment with Savage
Having forged an immense reputation for his coaching, Ten Hag will have a simple remit when it comes to making his mark on the training ground. Of course, work in the transfer market will have an equally important role to play, but the Dutchman has already shown to be hands-on with his sessions. His demands and expectations are sky high, while the mood has also seemingly been improved. A fantastic moment showing Ten Hag embrace Savage proves that and it was far from isolated.
Van de Beek shows steely determination
As mentioned above, there are few senior players on the training ground right now - with David de Gea and some others being the exceptions - but returning Donny van de Beek is there and supporters have shown a clear interest in how the Dutchman has been getting on. It has been a testing time for Van de Beek two years on from his switch from Ajax, but as a welcome and familiar face, the 25-year-old has been there to greet Ten Hag from day one. There is a steely focus in his eyes as the player hopes to make up for lost time and, finally, showcase his ability.
Rashford has a spring in his step
Marcus Rashford was not alone in his struggles last season. However, with only five goals to show from 32 matches and, at times, question marks over his body language when things were not going to plan, the England international provided an indicative snap-shot of that dismal campaign. He will stay and fight for his shirt and, if these images are anything to go by, it seems as though Rashford has an extra spring in his step. So could Ten Hag be the man to spark him back into life for club and country in what is a World Cup year?
Precious moments for Academy stars
Once household names such as Ronaldo touch down at Carrington, attentions will naturally be shifted as Ten Hag strives to come up with a masterplan for the Premier League and other competitions. However, until then, the new manager will be able to guide the next generation with some priceless tips that will stand them in good stead not only as individuals, but from a team perspective, too. This will be hugely important as and when Shola Shoretire and other promising talents get the nod moving forward, as they will already be accustomed to his ways.
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