Manchester United youngster Zidane Iqbal has sent a message to manager Erik ten Hag after his eye-catching performance against Liverpool in pre-season.
Iqbal played the duration of the second half in Bangkok after replacing Scott McTominay, with Ten Hag’s side going on to win 4-0. Facundo Pellistri scored after the interval following first-half strikes from Jadon Sancho, Fred and Anthony Martial.
Iqbal got 45 minutes under his belt against Jurgen Klopp’s side, adding to an impressive 2022 that has also seen the midfielder play twice for Iraq's senior side. He made his senior debut for the Red Devils during a Champions League clash with Swiss side Young Boys last season.
Speaking to United’s club website, Iqbal thanked Ten Hag for the opportunity given to him, as well as academy colleague Charlie Savage, on the club's pre-season tour of Asia and Australia.
He said: “Playing a very strong Liverpool team and obviously coming away with the win, I’d just like to thank the manager for putting his trust in me and Sav, you know?”
“[I’m] feeling excited, first tour. Honestly, it’s been boiling, the sweat, but it’s only going to help us with the season, just adapting to the last four days in Bangkok has been tough and obviously we’re now going to Australia.
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“Nine hours' [time] difference between there and England, I think, so it’s going to be tough but exciting times and we look forward to it.”
Iqbal’s message to Ten Hag with his performance came following praise from fellow teammate and one of United’s other bright young stars Anthony Elanga, who made 27 first-team appearances for the Red Devils last term.
After the win over Liverpool, Iqbal posted a photo on Instagram captioned: “First game done, Thanks to all the fans in [Thailand].” That led to a comment from Elanga, who commented “What a player,” followed by a fire emoji.
Iqbal will hope for another run out among United’s other senior players when United play Australian side Melbourne Victory on Friday before taking on Premier League rivals Crystal Palace four days later.
United have so far completed one signing this summer, acquiring Tyrell Malacia in a £15million deal from Feyenoord, with the Dutch left-back making his debut against Liverpool on Tuesday.
They have also been linked with deals to sign Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez and free agent Christian Eriksen.
