Zidane Iqbal was one of the stars of Manchester United’s win over Liverpool at Erik ten Hag’s side began pre-season in spectacular manner.
Iqbal, 19, put in a composed performance beyond his years to help United beat Liverpool 4-0, playing the second 45 minutes of the win.
Anthony Elanga praises Zidane Iqbal
Iqbal’s performance drew wide acclaim from supporters – and his colleagues too. Anthony Elanga made a point of congratulating his teammate on Instagram.
The teenager also received praise from several academy colleagues, who were proud to see the midfielder make an impression for the first team.
Iqbal was one of two academy stars stepping up in the victory, along with midfielder Charlie Savage, who he made his first team debut alongside under Ralf Rangnick back in December.
This was their first pre-season action, and Savage drew praise from Rio Ferdinand, who remarked that he ‘did his family proud’ after Robbie Savage had lauded his efforts.
Among the unused substitutes were Alejandro Garnacho, Hannibal, Tahith Chong and Ethan Laird, who hope for another opportunity in the upcoming games, while James Garner missed the game with a knock, and hopes to be available in Australia.
Youngsters Amad and Facundo Pellistri both played the second half too, combining for the Uruguayan to score United’s fourth goal, bamboozling Virgil van Dijk in the process.
The tour is shaping up as great experience for the youngsters in the squad. Erik ten Hag will be constantly assessing them, and he will have liked what he saw in Bangkok.
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