Man United train in Thailand for the first time ahead of pre-season friendly against Liverpool

Manchester United's players have trained in Thailand for the first time after arriving for their pre-season training camp.

A squad of 31 players have travelled to the south east Asian country, while they will also visit Australia as Erik ten Hag ramps up preparations for his first season in charge.

Wantaway forward Cristiano Ronaldo is a glaring omission from the group, as he has been granted additional time off to deal with a 'family issue'.

United's only new signing so far this summer is Tyrell Malacia from Feyenoord and the Dutch left-back was all smiles as he emerged for the training session.

David de Gea, Bruno Fernandes and Raphael Varane are three of the most senior players in the Red Devils' squad and will look to lead by example in the absence of Ronaldo.

Meanwhile, Jadon Sancho had a disappointing debut season at Old Trafford after signing from Borussia Dortmund last summer, so he will hope for improved fortunes to help him get back into the England squad.

Ten Hag has also taken several youngsters on United's pre-season tour, including Zidane Iqbal and Charlie Savage, who made their senior debuts last season.

James Garner and Amad Diallo spent time out on loan in 2021-22 at Nottingham Forest and Rangers respectively, but are in the squad and could battle for a first-team place this season.

United are in Thailand for the first time since 2013 and will take on Premier League rivals Liverpool in their first pre-season friendly on Tuesday.

As well as Ronaldo, who wants to leave the club if a suitable offer comes in, Phil Jones, Brandon Williams and Andreas Pereira are the other first-team players who will miss the tour.

Williams is staying in the UK and will train at Carrington as he recovers from a minor issue, while Jones is to follow a specialist pre-season programme in an attempt to prevent potential injuries during the 2022-2023 campaign.

Pereira has also been afforded some time off following his loan spell with Flamengo last term. The Brazilian has agreed to move to Premier League side Fulham in a deal worth £10million.