No defence for lack of cover in Reds attack

IF United's supporters are anticipating a flying start against Fulnam on Friday night, recent history shows they should not get too carried away.

- GEORGE SMITH

The Reds have been slow starters in each of their first two Premier League campaigns under Erik ten Hag, losing their opening two games in 2022/23 and limping their way to a fortunate 1-0 victory over Wolves in their first match of last season.

United were second best for long spells against the Black Country outfit in last season's curtain-raiser, conceding 23 shots. Had Wolves remembered to pack their shooting boots, the Reds would have started the season with another home defeat.

United, just as they did in 2022 and 2023, head into their season opener as favourites to get off to a Winning start.

Although results have been indifferent in recent weeks, performances during pre-season, plus at Wembley on Saturday, have been encouraging.

However, scoring goals has not come naturally for Ten Hag's men, highlighted by their tally of seven from their six warm-up matches.

The Reds worked some terrific openings against City in the Community Shield but only found the back of the net once, highlighting just how big a hole Rasmus Hojlund leaves up front.