What we learned from Erik's first session
Erik ten Hag took charge of a Manchester United training session for the first time on Monday, and our cameras were there to capture exclusive footage.
The Dutchman kept a very watchful eye on proceedings as he oversaw things with his coaches and our full video provides excellent insight into the day at Carrington.
It was noticeable how the new boss was explaining certain elements to the players as he looks to pass on key messages and principles.
Training highlights: Ten Hag’s first session
Erik ten Hag arrived early & left late on a galvanising first day at Carrington. Watch his energetic training session...
It was great to see Steve McClaren back at the club after his incredible success working with Sir Alex Ferguson and he was chatting to striker Marcus Rashford as the group made their way out to the training pitch.
Rashford and Jadon Sancho missed the climax of last term, due to illness, but were both fit and well when reporting back for the first day of pre-season, which should provide a real boost in the attacking positions. Fellow England international Luke Shaw was also present again with the squad.
There were plenty of youngsters in the group, including many who have returned to the club after loan spells away in 2021/22. Di'Shon Bernard, Tahith Chong, Amad and Ethan Laird were among these and it was interesting to note Alejandro Garnacho back in the fold after his exploits with Argentina Under-20s only last month.
Aside from the obligatory running and jogging, there were other parts of training that caught the eye. Keepers David De Gea and Tom Heaton joined in with a small passing drill with the outfield players, showing their ability to make quick, accurate passes under pressure.
There was also a faster-paced workout which involved a great deal of movement and short, sharp passing to each other, which looked like it could get dizzying over time. All the players looked comfortable picking it up, again watched closely by the coaching staff, including Mitchell van der Gaag who, like McClaren, is an assistant coach.
Goalkeeping coach Richard Hartis oversaw a drill that involved the keepers showing off their razor-shape reflexes, even though it was the first day back.
There was plenty of time for Erik to address the group as a whole as he gets to know his players and continues preparation before more of the squad head back to Manchester in preparation for the flight to Thailand next week for the start of Tour 2022.