Manchester United ’s pre-season preparations are set to take a step up this week as they take on fierce rivals Liverpool in Thailand.
The Red Devils clash with Jurgen Klopp ’s men in Thailand for a pre-season friendly, with Erik ten Hag set to lead the team for the first time since his summer arrival from Ajax. Ahead of the game, the Dutchman has been putting his side through their paces at the Rajamangala Stadium.
Having already taken a few training sessions at the club's Carrington base, it gives him a great opportunity to see his squad in action in a new environment. With that being said, here are four things that Mirror Sport noticed from the latest session as Man Utd’s pre-season schedule finally kicks off.
Running, running and more running
Whilst a number of players have praised Ten Hag since his arrival for his meticulous attention and forward-thinking approach to detail regarding tactics and playing style, it appears that the 52-year-old is still a fan of the old-fashioned pre-season.
The Red Devils squad have been regularly pictured taking part in group running sessions throughout pre-season as they attempt to improve their fitness. That has been no different over in Thailand with the group snapped running the diameter of the pitch.
Of course, there has been tactical and positional sessions too but it is clear that Ten Hag is at least trying to get his side in the best physical shape possible ahead of what is sure to be a testing campaign at Old Trafford.
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Maguire training alone
One notable absence from the Red Devils’ latest session was Harry Maguire who was pictured alongside a member of the coaching staff working away from the squad.
Reports have suggested that the Man Utd captain has picked up a slight injury so will of course be a doubt for the clash against Liverpool.
Whilst that is bad news, there has been a positive for the former Leicester City star over the past 24 hours with Ten Hag confirming that he will retain the Old Trafford captaincy despite an indifferent season last term having seen his position called into question.
Rashford all smiles
While Maguire will be hoping to improve his fortunes this season, another of the current incumbent will also be keen to have a better 2022/23 campaign. Marcus Rashford scored just five goals throughout the entirety of last season having failed to find his best form under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and then Ralf Rangnick.
There appeared to be a cloud forming regarding Rashford’s stint at Old Trafford, however he immediately looks happier under the stewardship of his new boss. The 24-year-old was pictured with a beaming smile during the Red Devils’ latest training session.
Should he continue to remain positive then the likelihood is that he will be able to recapture the electric form that made him so exciting right at the start of his Old Trafford career.
Telles firmly involved
Heading into pre-season, Ten Hag has a number of left-backs at his disposal. The Dutchman has made a move for compatriot Tyrell Malacia, whilst the likes of Luke Shaw, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams are all already at the club.
The former Porto star’s future is currently the most uncertain with United open to selling him this summer. However, it appears that an exit is not on the cards any time soon.
Telles was pictured right at the front of the pack during the Red Devils’ running session on Monday. Whether he is fighting to stay at the club remains to be seen but for now he remains firmly part of the club’s plans - even if that it is just for the upcoming clash with Liverpool.
