Zidane Iqbal explains what he’s doing to impress Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag

Zidane Iqbal insists it is too early to decide whether to leave Manchester United on loan this season.

Iqbal is threatening to become the breakout youngster of United's pre-season tour after impressing as a half-time substitute in the 4-0 win over Liverpool in Bangkok and the 4-1 victory against Melbourne Victory this week. The 19-year-old made his United debut against Young Boys in the Champions League group stage in December and signed a new contract earlier this month until 2025.

Iqbal is effectively the third-choice central midfielder under Erik ten Hag as United fail to make any significant headway with a deal for Frenkie de Jong. United are expected to eventually reinforce their midfield and so Iqbal is reluctant to make a hasty decision on his immediate future.

Also read: Ten Hag's early decisions already benefiting some players

"I am not sure. If an opportunity came up to go out on loan, I would weigh up the pros and cons," he explained. "Right now it is too early to say. See what the future holds.

"It's the best feeling [to be playing]. I have grown up loving this club. I have played here since I was eight or nine. To play in front of 90,000 people. It is something I dreamed of. To play here and against Liverpool, even in the Champions League. It is hard to describe.

"I would just like to thank the fans for showing me all the love and support recently. It is an amazing feeling. Thank you."

Iqbal has acquitted himself impressively in United's matches so far, using the ball prudently and maintaining momentum in attacks. The Manchester Evening News wrote in January on how he studies De Jong's style.

"It has been part of my games since I was young, always wanting the ball," he said. "I have told myself ‘this