Manchester United defence - have your say and pick which signings should start for Erik ten Hag

Three games and three wins. Erik ten Hag's start as Manchester United manager has been a strong one, with the obvious caveat that pre-season results will count for little once the season starts.

Perhaps more encouraging than the results have been the performances, with United beginning to display patterns of play - particularly in attack - with a fluid forward line linking up with the midfield and defence to cut through Liverpool ( 4-0 ), Melbourne Victory ( 4-1 ) and Crystal Palace ( 3-1 ).

While United have notched 11 goals in 270 pre-season minutes so far, they've only conceded twice. For a defence that shipped 57 Premier League goals last season - more than Burnley who were relegated - that is an early source of optimism for Ten Hag.

Needless to say, United will face bigger tests this coming campaign, especially when Liverpool's players are match fit - but with Tyrell Malacia already showing signs of promise, and Lisandro Martinez agreeing to join from Ajax, Ten Hag will have further options to choose from at the back.

There are likely to be a few exits at the back before the summer transfer window shuts, but as things stand, Ten Hag has plenty of combinations in defence...

Have Your Say! Tell us your first-choice Man Utd defence here.

Harry Maguire endured a torrid 2021/22 season and was recently booed by fans on tour in Australia, but given he has retained the captaincy, it looks like Ten Hag will at the very least give his skipper the chance to keep his starting role.

Raphael Varane would be a nailed-on starter for most clubs, but his worrying injury record, coupled with the purchase of Lisandro Martinez , suggests the World Cup winner may not be seen as a player to be relied upon week in, week out.

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