Youngsters Set For Role In Bigger Squad

A BIGGER SQUAD

Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho is looking at a first-team squad of 28 players. United will compete on four fronts this campaign. Compared to the previous campaign, Mourinho had 26 players and saw the players’ energy reserves stretched in a grueling 64 game season. Mourinho will be hoping to avoid a situation similar to the one suffered in April when the run-in starts. United lost a number of players to injuries towards April and May, some of whom are yet to return to the pitch.

TWO HOURS EARLY

Manchester United advised fans coming to Old Trafford to reach the stadium at least two hours prior to kick off. The decision has been taken in the wake of increased security at the entry points of the stadium in the wake of the recent terror incidents in Manchester and London. Restrictions on the size of the bags being carried into the stadium have also been revised. There will be stricter and more stringent checks at the turnstiles. Fans have been advised to arrive early to avoid missing any of the action on the pitch.

MISSION NOT-SO-IMPOSSIBLE

The Cristiano Ronaldo to Manchester United story is not fully over. After intense speculation linking the Ballon D’or holder to Old Trafford, Mourinho played down speculation. But after Ronaldo’s comments during his court appearance sparked yet more transfer talk. He was reportedly quoted as saying: “‘In England I never had problems, that’s why I’d like to come back. I always taxed, always, in England and Spain, and I will always pay taxes, as you know, I cannot hide anything, it would be ridiculous of me, I’m like an open book. Forbes magazine, for example, gets everything I earn.”

PEREIRA IN CL SQUAD

Mourinho is set to name Brazilian youngster Andrea Pereira to the Champions League squad after being impressed on Tour. Pereira returned to the club after a spell on loan at Granada but was unexpected to make the first squad for the European campaign. United were to use the provision for Academy players to get him to the Champions League fold.

TOMINAY SET FOR BIGGER ROLE

It’s not just Pereira who will play a bigger role in the first team this season as Mourinho has earmarked Scott McTominay for a regular first-team place. McTominay has not put a foot wrong since breaking into the first team squad last May. He scored in pre-season against Valerenga and was regularly fielded by Mourinho in midfield.

SPURS TO RIVAL UNITED

Tottenham Hotspur will rival Manchester United for the signature of highly rated Bolton goalie Jake Turner. He has caught the eye of scouts of a number of teams but only United and Spurs have showed a legitimate interest in the 18-year-old. United lead the race while Everton have also shown an interest in the youngster.