Manchester United have enjoyed a fruitful pre-season tour of Thailand and Australia this month.
They were a second away from attaining a 100 per cent winning record with triumphs over Liverpool, Melbourne Victory and Crystal Palace followed by Saturday’s 2-2 draw with Aston Villa. Erik ten Hag has been able to put his plans into action, and his preparations have paid off so far.
He’s not tried to hide his selection preferences by seemingly starting his preferred XI in all four friendlies. But he’s also made sure to give most academy hopefuls in the tour squad some minutes.
