Friendly match could be scouting mission for boss
Not only a chance to view the stars of tomorrow, the visit of a Manchester United XI to Glanford Park is an opportunity to see some potential future loanees.
The Premier League giants have been a salutary source of young talent for Iron manager Alan Knill in the past few seasons, with Oliver Norwood and Sam Johnstone both given league experience by Scunthorpe United last term.
-
Former Iron loanee Sam Johnstone, pictured with Scunthorpe goalkeeping coach Neil Cutler, is likely to be a part of the Manchester United squad that plays at Glanford Park tonight.
Having earlier this week announced they will face a Red Devils side made up more of burgeoning reputations rather than household names on Friday, it may not be the last time some of the visiting side get an opportunity to play at Glanford Park.
"I don't know what team will come," said the Iron boss.
BLINDS & CURTAINS MADE 2 MEASURE WE COVER SCUNTHORPE & GRIMSBY...
View detailsFREE MAEASURING AND FITTING SERVICE PHONE 809887 FOR A FREE QUOTE www.grimsby-sunblinds.co.uk
Contact: 01472 809887
Valid until: Friday, May 31 2013
"I went to watch a Manchester United XI play Shrewsbury last year and it was an unbelievable team.
"Whatever they put out, they have the best younger players in the country, so if you're not seeing the stars of now you're definitely seeing the stars of two or three years.
"I remember when I was at Bury as a player, we played them pre-season and it seemed at the time it was their youth team.
"Paul Scholes played centre-forward – and was unbelievable. Unfortunately, I was centre-half!
"We all hope there will be some big players, but they have to manage a squad like we do."
The match, which kicks off at 7.30pm, has been a late addition to the Iron's pre-season schedule.
It is likely Johnstone will get the chance to feature against the side where he spent four months on loan last season.
Also included could be the likes of Nemanja Vidic, who is working his way back to fitness after missing half of last season with a knee ligament injury.
"We've been on with it for a long time," added the Iron boss.
"Obviously the first team have been away and Ryan Giggs is at the Olympics, so it's been quite difficult.
"But we got the okay last week and it'll be great to play Manchester United."
Comments