With pre-season now in full effect, Manchester United youngsters Zidane Iqbal and Charlie Savage both spoke about their experience during the 4-0 victory over Liverpool in the first game of the 2022 pre-season.
With these friendlies offering clubs the chance to get their players match fit for the start of the upcoming 2022/23 Premier League season, the opportunity for youngsters to showcase their ability is also on the agenda.
Two products of the highly rated Manchester United academy Zidane Iqbal and Charlie Savage displayed their ability in the centre of the park for the entirety of the second half, holding on against a stronger Liverpool side than the first half, and ensuring a 4-0 victory for the Reds.
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Both players, who debuted against Young Boys in the Champions League last season, gained another invaluable experience by traveling with the first-team under the new era of Erik ten Hag.
After the victory against the Merseyside club, the two youngsters spoke in an interview where both players reflected on their time in Thailand, training with the first team and their performances against Liverpool.
Savage showed appreciation to fans in Thailand, as well as being given the chance to join the first team in the pre-season.
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"[It’s been] an absolutely amazing experience over here in Thailand." He told MUTV. “The fans have been amazing. For me, it’s a privilege to be on this tour and to get the win was extra special tonight.”
Meanwhile, Iqbal reflected on the tough Liverpool line-up which was brought out in the second half, and echoed his partner's words on being given a chance to perform.
"Playing a very strong Liverpool team and obviously coming away with the win, I’d just like to thank the manager for putting his trust in me and Sav, you know?"
Both youngsters showed incredible gratitude for the opportunity to line up in the pre-season to highlight their ability in the first team.
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With Thailand proving to be tough conditions due to the weather, the training and adjustments needed proved to be a challenge.
“[I’m] feeling excited, first tour. Honestly, it’s been boiling, the sweat, but it’s only going to help us with the season." Iqbal explained.
"Just adapting to the last four days in Bangkok has been tough and obviously we’re now going to Australia.”
Savage added to his previous comments on the fans. Many of the United players have been unable to experience the world-wide support for the club due to the pandemic, and it was no different for the academy graduates.
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"It's the first time I’ve really experienced this, except for our debuts," The Englishman said. "So to see the fans, the support from all the Thailand boys and girls has obviously been amazing.”
With Iqbal recently putting pen to paper over a new deal at Manchester United, the trust in the talented midfielder is clearly evident.
While Savage is less admired within the wider fanbase, he showed solid potential in his cameo alongside his Iraqi teammate, and the opportunity for the youngster will be there if he continues to impress.
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After a strong outing for these United youngsters, they will be keen to continue to show their talents as the tour progresses into Australia.
United play Melbourne Victory on Friday, after they arrived in the city on Wednesday.
Topics: Manchester United, Football, Liverpool, Erik Ten Hag
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