Raphael Varane and James Garner absences v Crystal Palace explained

Add as preferred source on Google

Raphael Varane and James Garner are not in the matchday squad for Manchester United’s pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace.

Garner is yet to feature under Erik ten Hag during our pre-season tour and his wait for his first outing under the Dutchman will go on.

Following today’s clash against Patrick Vieira’s Eagles at the Melbourne Cricket Ground, United head to Perth for the next leg of Tour 22.

The Red Devils face Steven Gerrard’s Aston Villa on Saturday.

Raphael Varane and James Garner absences v Crystal Palace explained

According to the club’s website, Varane and Garner are not in the squad but this is only as a precaution and the pair will continue to train with the group.

Varane started United’s 4-0 win against Liverpool in Bangkok, Thailand, but the World Cup winner missed the 4-1 win against Melbourne Victory.

The four-time Champions League winner endured an injury hampered first season in English football which restricted him to 20 Premier League starts.

With Lisandro Martinez set to add further competition in the centre-back department, the former Real Madrid star will be hoping to shrug off his injury concerns and become a mainstay in Ten Hag’s backline.

Garner has endured a frustrating start to pre-season after shining during his season-long loan at Nottingham Forest.

While fellow academy stars Zidane Iqbal and Charlie Savage have impressed on tour, United’s number 37 hasn’t yet had the opportunity to catch Ten Hag’s eye on the pitch.

With three pre-season games to come after the clash against Palace, Garner will be hoping to showcase his qualities and what he could bring to Ten Hag’s side ahead of the Premier League opener on 7 August, against Brighton & Hove Albion.