Quinton Fortune.

Fortune: Summer signings need the right character

Thursday 09 June 2022 07:00

Former Manchester United man Quinton Fortune believes there needs to be one key ingredient in any player the club is targeting during the summer transfer window.

The South African, who took part in the recent Legends of the North game at Old Trafford against Liverpool, feels it is imperative the right characters are introduced to the current squad, which will be managed by Erik ten Hag, following his switch from Ajax to take on the job.

As is the case every year, a whole host of players have been linked with moves to Old Trafford but Fortune is adamant any signings do not necessarily have to be big names. Instead, he reckons humility and a determination to work for the greater good of the team are two vital characteristics for anybody able to help the club lift silverware again.

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"I have thought about that and it's a good question," Fortune replied, when asked which sort of players United need to be identifying in the market. "It doesn't have to be big names. It's got to be the right characters to fit into the culture of Manchester United. That is the thing to achieve again. It is very important. Not every single player will have to be better to coach but the humility bit is what has got United so much success.

"Yes, the teams I played in had individual characters but, when it came down to the team, there was so much humility in what they did and their work in winning the Champions League and championships but then they just came in ready to work again. So, for me, it's the right characters.

"There is the opportunity to bring in new players with a few players coming to the end of their contracts," he added. "It's always good to have a base month and a half to have a look at the team and implement the style of play and the way he wants things to be around the team and the club. On the training ground, there will be enough time to work with the players and prepare for the beginning of the season.

"Of course, we'll wait to see who he brings in. That is the exciting part."

Obviously, there is the chance for something of a clean slate for the existing members of the squad and there will be opportunities presented during the tour. Ten Hag may decide to take a closer look at some of the youngsters attempting to break through and earn a place in the first-team group for 2022/23.

"I think it's a good time for every player to impress," explained Fortune. "It's a fresh start for everyone. I saw Hannibal last season and I hope he gets opportunities in pre-season as he looks very exciting. Anthony Elanga took his chance and he's looked really, really exciting too. I watched the Under-18s live against Reading this season, when they beat us, and it was a blessing watching them. They've got some amazing players and I'm really looking forward to seeing more of them.

"But I think once you create a happy environment, with good relationships between the players, I think everyone will flourish. 

"Everyone will be happy to come to training with a smile on their face, give off good energy and we'll see lots of positivity on the pitch. Not just from the players but the fans as well."

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