Manchester United players were working hard at Carrington on Wednesday ahead of their visit to FC Sheriff in the Europa League on Thursday night.
United supporters are expecting a big reaction from Erik ten Hag ‘s side after last week’s disappointing 1-0 defeat to Spanish side Real Sociedad on matchday one.
The Reds were not in action at the weekend, with their scheduled match against Crystal Palace postponed following the death of the Queen on Thursday, September 8. United’s planned clash against Leeds United on Sunday has also been postponed due to a shortage of police officers ahead of the Queen’s funeral on Monday, September 19.
MEN Sport has taken a look at Wednesday’s training session and here is what we spotted.
Ronaldo and Ten Hag enjoy a laugh
Although Cristiano Ronaldo has only started two matches for United so far this season, he still seems to be forming a good relationship with manager Ten Hag.
While the United No.7 is bound to be desperate for more minutes than he has been getting in recent weeks, the pair could be seen laughing together after the Dutchman made a joke with Ronaldo and Ten Hag all smiles during the training session at Carrington. The Portuguese international, who is expected to feature against Sheriff on Thursday night, appears to be content at Old Trafford after a summer of speculation.
Ten Hag’s inner circle
The Dutchman has enjoyed a steady start to his reign as United boss, and his coaching staff are clearly a massive part of how he operates at the club. Ten Hag was spotted in conversation with assistant manager Mitchell van der Gaag and technical director Darren Fletcher.
Ten Hag relies on, and values, his coaches’ opinions – especially on the training pitch. Ahead of an important clash in Europe, United will need to be firing on all cylinders in order to record their first win of their Europa League campaign.
Antony integrating well
Since arriving from Ajax in the summer, Antony has impressed in his two outings in a red shirt. The Brazilian, who scored on his debut against Arsenal, appears to be a popular member of the first-team squad.
He was seen speaking to centre-back Lisandro Martinez during the training session on Wednesday, with the Argentine defender putting his arm around the 22-year-old. Antony has also formed a strong bond on the flank with right-back Diogo Dalot since arriving at Old Trafford.
Eriksen’s orders
Christian Eriksen is proving to be a shrewd addition for the Reds, with the Dane dictating play from the base of midfield in recent weeks – helping Ten Hag’s men to four successive wins in the Premier League. During the session at Carrington, the 30-year-old appeared to issue orders to his teammates during a training drill.
Given has vast experience, the former Tottenham man will be a big help for United’s younger midfielders. His partnership with Scott McTominay has been solid in recent weeks.
Maguire in good spirits
Harry Maguire has only made four appearances for United so far this season – starting on just three occasions. He has dropped down the pecking order with Martinez and Varane forming an impressive partnership.
It remains to be seen if the England centre-back will be selected for the Three Lions’ squad by Gareth Southgate on Thursday, but he was still all smiles during training on Wednesday.
Leave a Reply