Manchester United beat Burnley in closed friendly

It might not have looked like it when Manchester United swept aside Leeds United on the weekend but many of the United players, including those who featured in the 5-1 romp, were still playing for match-fitness.

A game behind closed doors against neighbours Burnley was held at Old Trafford earlier today with this in mind. This has been a common occurrence since Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s been at the wheel.

United came out victorious with a 3-1 scoreline. Aaron Lennon found the target for the visitors in the first half before Anthony Martial got the last touch of a header directed by captain Harry Maguire to level the score. We wonder if a certain Eric Ramsay might be behind this.

Jesse Lingard, who was absent from United’s last pre-season game after contracting COVID, was back and also on the scoresheet to help the Reds take the lead before Fred, who has clearly taken umbrage over his manager’s comments in the weekend’s post-match press conference, secured the win with another goal.

New signing Jadon Sancho also got some valuable minutes. The returning Phil Jones also got some minutes.

Here’s a thread that captures some of the game’s action from the stands.

United’s impressive showing on the weekend sees them lead the Premier League table on goal difference. With some match sharpness gained following this practice game, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer will be hoping that he’ll have more options to choose from when United face Southampton on the weekend to capitalize on the momentum.