Rúben Amorim has confirmed that a “special” player will play increased minutes as Manchester United face Hong Kong in their second post-season friendly.
Manchester United are preparing for the second of their two post-season friendlies as they take on Hong Kong in Hong Kong, China.
Following a 1-0 defeat to the ASEAN All-Stars in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, Rúben Amorim is expected to shake things up, blending senior players with Academy talent in an effort to bounce back from a poor showing.
It comes at the end of a frustrating domestic season in which United finished 15th in the Premier League and lost the Europa League final to Tottenham, meaning there will be no European football next year.
However, the tour is expected to generate over £8 million in revenue, and with Matheus Cunha on the verge of becoming the club’s first summer signing, there is cautious optimism for a more promising campaign ahead.
Amorim provides United’s latest team news
Speaking in his pre-match press conference on Thursday, Amorim confirmed that although his team are certainly tired following the Malaysian fixtures on Wednesday and a long and gruelling season, his side is still ready to play.
“Of course, the team is tired because we flew to Malaysia and with the jet lag we had a game in difficult conditions,” Amorime explained.
“But we are ready to play again and are really happy to be here. We enjoy the city, and the weather is like Manchester! We have three players who have gone to India to give something to the fans around the world.
“All of them are going to play [otherwise]. If there is a physical issue, they cannot play. But if they are available, they will play this game.”
Amorim confirms increased gametime for Kone
Although United’s 1-0 loss has been met with plenty of criticism, one player who finished the tie with plaudits is United’s 19-year-old midfielder Sekou Kone.
Kone only played 15 minutes in the first half, but did plenty to earn praise, playing “special” football in the middle of the park alongside Manuel Ugarte.
“He will play more in the next match,” Amorim said of Kone. “He did well. All the young players tried, and that’s the most important thing.”
Other youngsters, such as Shea Lacey, Jack Moorhouse, and Jaydan Kamason, are also expected to receive increased game time throughout the Hong Kong tie and pre-season fixtures in July and August.
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