Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag wants to see his side fight for one and other against Liverpool.
The Dutchman takes on Jurgen Klopp’s side in his first game in charge of the Red Devils in a pre-season friendly clash in Bangkok, Thailand.
The 52-year-old has named his starting line-up for the game at the Rajamangala Stadium.
With some of United’s international players only returning to Carrington last Monday, the former Ajax manager knows minutes in the legs will be crucial with the start of the new Premier League season drawing ever closer.
Speaking to MUTV, Ten Hag said: “The players are ready for it [to face Liverpool], we’ve had some really good training sessions but of course there is still a lot to develop.
“Some players have only had nine days in training and you cannot expect that everything comes automatically.
“But I told the players I want to see an attitude – some misunderstandings will come up but then you have to fight and battle for one and other, and stick together.”
Erik ten Hag explains what qualities he wants to see from his Manchester United side against Liverpool
On far too many occasions last season, United simply rolled over and showed a soft centre when things became difficult.
However, given Ten Hag’s stern no-nonsense approach, any players that aren’t pulling their weight aren’t likely to last long under the tutelage of the Dutchman.
With several first team stars declaring how intense and tough the training sessions have been, Ten Hag will be hoping his side can mirror Liverpool’s intense pressing style.
With club captain Harry Maguire not available due to a slight knock and Cristiano Ronaldo not currently on the club’s pre-season tour, Ten Hag has gone for a very strong starting XI against our arch rivals.
United’s sole signing of the transfer window so far Tyrell Malacia is on the bench and will no doubt be eager to make his debut for the Reds.
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