A new era in Manchester United’s illustrious history started with a defeat in Thailand as part of their pre-season tour.
David Moyes took charge of a United team for the first time on Saturday and would surely have hoped for more as his side went down 1-0 to Singha All Stars in Bangkok.
After the game Moyes said: “It wasn’t a brilliant result but this wasn’t one we desperately needed to win.
“It is one we needed to get prepared to win games.”
Despite the defeat, there were several positive performances from United youngsters – most notably Adnan Januzaj and new signing Wilfried Zaha.
There are several big names currently unavailable for the Reds and these absences provided Januzaj with an opportunity to impress.
Positive and penetrative running from the 18-year-old Belgian caused the All Stars’ defence problems and the youngster almost opened the scoring after hitting a side footed effort over the bar following a cross from Tom Cleverly.
United were, however, unable to beat the All Star’s defence and five minutes after the break the Thai hosts went ahead.
Zaha was introduced after an hour and, like Januzaj, looked lively with driving runs down the right flank and the supply of dangerous crosses.
“Wilfried did well. He gave us something different,” Moyes said.
“We have brought him here to give him a chance. It is the first time I have worked with him and had a chance to see him up close.
“He will certainly be part of the squad and we will see where we can fit him in as often as we can,” he added.
Ultimately though, United were destined for defeat and, despite the positives, Moyes could not have been entirely pleased.
With more key players set to join up with the squad in Australia the fiery Scot will be looking for a response from the squad in order to secure his first win as United boss.
Picture courtesy of James Boyes, with thanks.
For more on this story and many others, follow Mancunian Matters on Twitter and Facebook.
