Manchester United are hoping to upgrade their midfield this summer. Christian Eriksen is expected to join on a free transfer and Frenkie de Jong is Erik ten Hag's priority target, but neither has signed yet, which means a number of players have a chance to impress during pre-season.
United's midfield has been the team's weakest area for multiple seasons now, with many fans criticising the 'McFred' partnership, which was borne out of a lack of alternative signings and a clear defensive option. But even if De Jong and Eriksen do sign, it remains to be seen who United will use as the primary backup options.
Scott McTominay and Fred will be hoping to stake their claim, with Donny van de Beek also in the mix, but could some of the young players also stake their claim? Well, based on how Zidane Iqbal performed in his 45-minute appearance against Liverpool on Tuesday he could have a chance.
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Now the circumstances of the Liverpool friendly should be factored in when analysing Iqbal's performance, but the youngster still played well, especially when you consider Liverpool subbed on a number of first-team players during the second half. During one moment in particular, the academy midfielder showed incredible maturity and technique under pressure from Fabinho and was able to play his way out of danger.
Iqbal made his senior debut last season in United's final game of the Champions League group stage, as an 89th-minute substitute. He also made history as the first British-born South Asian to play for the club, and the first ever British South Asian to play in the competition.
Iqbal will be hoping to build on that single appearance alongside his academy team-mate Charlie Savage, and given Ten Hag's track record of playing and giving youth its opportunity, there is a good chance we will be seeing more of the players over the next few years. But with a number of injuries throughout the squad and signings few and far between so far this summer, they will be relishing the chance to play now.
United's next friendly fixture will be against Melbourne Victory on Thursday and United fans will be hoping they get another chance to see Iqbal, Savage and even James Garner, who missed the first game of pre-season through injury. And who knows what the future will hold with Europa League, FA Cup and League Cup fixtures to play this coming season.
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