Manchester United have the perfect captain for their pre-season opener vs Leeds United

Coming through the ranks at Manchester United, Tom Heaton would have dreamt of captaining the Reds. This afternoon that could become a reality for the veteran goalkeeper.

The 37-year-old seems set to start against Leeds United with Erik ten Hag still searching for a number one following the departure of David de Gea while Dean Henderson is out injured. Youngsters Nathan Bishop and Matej Kovar are the other goalkeeping options for the opening friendly with Leeds in Norway and Heaton will surely be handed game time.

With several senior stars absent as they recover from international action, and a handful more sidelined through injury or rehabilitation, there are only a couple of captaincy candidates. Raphael Varane is the other alternative but Heaton is well-placed to lead the side.

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He is vastly experienced and was club captain at Burnley for many years in the Premier League during a historic period for the Clarets. The stopper is a valued member of the United squad and was part of the leadership group after being identified by Ten Hag as a person with plenty to offer.

He is understood to have been a key figure behind the scenes last season as the Reds sought to return to the top table in English football. Heaton is an outstanding professional and trainer and is respected by his teammates while helping drive standards in training.

There's a reason Premier League newcomers Luton Town were keen on the former Aston Villa man while a reunion with his old Turf Moor boss Sean Dyche at Everton has also