Manchester United coach Steve Holland is feeling increasingly optimistic about the team after a productive and encouraging summer of preparation.
INEOS brought Holland in as Michael Carrick’s assistant in January, tasking the experienced coach with helping steady the ship at Old Trafford following the departure of Ruben Amorim.
The 56-year-old has played a crucial role in organising the defence, using his extensive experience from his time at Chelsea and with England.
Holland believes United could hardly have asked for a better pre-season, describing their preparations as the “perfect” launchpad for the new campaign.
He said (via Manchester United): “If you are talking from the preparation point of view, this pre-season has been perfect.
“We have been based at Carrington for the training program. We have been in control of training facilities, pitch and recovery.
“Just travelling in and out to play high level games, returning to Carrington has given the best possible chance to be ready for the start.”
The Red Devils have been travelling to the United States for their pre-season over the last three years, but they deliberately abandoned that familiar routine.
The decision was largely influenced by the FIFA World Cup hosted across the United States, Mexico and Canada.
United chose to stay in Europe, with fixtures scheduled across Finland, Norway, Sweden and the Republic of Ireland.
Only two friendlies now stand between United and the start of a crucial new campaign.
The Red Devils will face Leeds United in Dublin tomorrow before wrapping up their preparations against AC Milan in Wroclaw, Poland, on August 15.
Remaining at a familiar base could have given the players the ideal environment to sharpen their focus, eliminate unnecessary distractions and concentrate fully on tactics.
Having said that, pre-season optimism can disappear quickly. United know their positive summer will count for little if they stumble out of the blocks when the competitive action begins.
The Red Devils will launch their Premier League campaign against Hull City on August 22.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
