Former Manchester United player sets Alvaro Fernandez challenge for pre-season tour

Alvaro Fernandez must seize the opportunity to impress Erik ten Hag on Manchester United’s pre-season tour of the US amid Tyrell Malacia’s injury, according to a former player.

Luke Shaw is the primary left-back with Malacia as back-up, although the Dutchman has been ruled out of the trip to America. And so it opens the door for Fernandez to be handed more minutes than perhaps he otherwise would have on tour.

The Spaniard had a successful season on loan at Preston North End last season, winning the club’s Young Player of the Year.

The full-back started both friendlies against Leeds and Lyon ahead of fellow left-back Brandon Williams. Former United winger Ben Thornley outlined how Fernandez has been given an opening to continue his momentum following Malacia’s injury.

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“I really enjoy watching him and I'm glad he's been given the chance,” Thornley told club media. “Of course, an injury [like the one Malacia has picked up] can open the door. I mean nobody wishes an injury on anybody but, sometimes, that is the time when you do get your chance and opportunity.

"I know that Fernandez doesn't want any of his teammates to get hurt but when it happens to be in your position, you just have to take it because, you know, at the end of the day, football is a cut-throat business.

"And being on the pitch, he's no different. You have to grab your chance when it comes along, no matter how that chance does come along."

Thornley says Fernandez’s starts in both friendlies “shows what the manager's thinking is” albeit recognised the challenge for game time he will