Five things we want to see in Manchester United's opening tour match
It’s time to turn our attention to Manchester United’s first match of pre-season.
It takes place in the early hours of Saturday against Australian side Perth.
United have a blank canvas and Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has 28 players to choose from.
It’s possible as many as 22 could feature if United make wholesale changes at half-time.
Here are five things we want to see…
WAYNE ROONEY TO EVERTON IS A JOKE.
Tuanzebe alongside Lindelof
The tour is a great chance for Axel Tuanzebe to prove his worth as a first team player.
But it would be unfair to judge Tuanzebe in a partnership with Phil Jones or Marcos Rojo.
Give him a proper opportunity alongside United’s best centre-back Victor Lindelöf.
Game time for James and Wan-Bissaka
We don’t need to see anything in particular from Dan James or Aaron Wan-Bissaka, we just need them to play.
The two new Manchester United signings must acclimatise quickly to the pressure of playing for the Red Devils.
Getting off to a successful, impactful debut would help, but really it’s just about getting out there and learning to gel with new teammates.
Paul Pogba enjoying his football
With all the attention on Paul Pogba and his future off the pitch, playing football again should be a sanctuary for the Frenchman.
We want to see him out on the pitch, smiling, conducting the play and influencing the game.
A sulky, disinterested performance will not help anybody.
Young talent seizing the moment
United have taken a collection of bright young talent on tour. Angel Gomes, Mason Greenwood, James Garner and Tahith Chong all hope to get chances.
Not all of them may play against Perth, but those who do, need to grab their opportunities.
This is the moment for them to state their cases as first team players for next season.
A midfield hero
With doubts over Paul Pogba’s future and Fred absent from tour for family reasons, United’s midfield looks weak.
We need a player to step up and show that United’s midfield is stronger than it seems.
It could be Scott McTominay who steps up, or one of the youngsters.
Transfers are needed in midfield, but for now, we need to see something positive from the players who are here.
Read more: How much is 21-year-old United talent worth in this market?
