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Manchester Evening News
Manchester Evening News
Sport
Charlie Wilson

Three things we spotted as Manchester United continue pre-season training

Manchester United are now in the second week of preparations at Carrington before they travel to Asia later this week to fully begin their pre-season. It's a new era for the Reds, with new manager Erik ten Hag now taking training for a number of days, with the club reportedly set to announce their first signing.

Christian Eriksen is reportedly set to sign after choosing United, whilst reportedly being in talks with former clubs Tottenham Hotspur and Brentford. Eriksen returned to the Premier League after being released from Inter following his horrific health scare at EURO 2020 when he suffered a cardiac arrest. He would go on to impress at Brentford this past season, before becoming a free agent.

This final week of training before travelling to the first stop on their pre-season tour in Bangkok will give Ten Hag a few more days at assess his players, and it's likely several of the club's academy graduates will be on the plane to Thailand and Australia for the 16-day tour.

READ MORE: Three ways Manchester United could line up with Christian Eriksen transfer

Here are three things that Manchester Evening News spotted on day six at Carrington.

Steve McClaren's hands-on role

New Manchester United assistant coach Steve McClaren returned to the club more than 20 years after he left as Sir Alex Ferguson's assistant. The former England manager has been seen in a very hands on role during training sessions, talking to players in a number of images whilst joking a few senior players.

Some United fans were confused with McClaren's return, after a difficult few years at a number of clubs. But he is clearly a respected coach, with Ten Hag more than happy to sit back and let him take control in certain situations.

Fernandes, Maguire and Varane return

Bruno Fernandes looked to enjoy today's session (Manchester United via Getty Images)

A number of senior players returned to training today, including Bruno Fernandes, Harry Maguire and Raphael Varane. The three players were all seen smiling and enjoying themselves back at Carrington today. The three were the most senior out of the group, and lead the players out for warm-ups to begin the session.

Jadon Sancho's spirits high

Whilst Jadon Sancho had his moments last season, it's fair to say that he'll be hoping to improve on his first season in the Premier League, and will look to do so in Ten Hag's new system.

Sancho only scored three Premier League goals last campaign, after scoring 17 two seasons ago in the Bundesliga at Borussia Dortmund.

On Monday, he was seen enjoying himself as he prepares for a big role in the Dutchman's United team.

In high spirits: Jadon Sancho (Manchester United via Getty Images)

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