Sports

Man Utd play secret match less than 24 hours after Brighton defeat – but Ronaldo misses it

Manchester United took part in a secret behind-closed-doors match against Halifax on Monday as they tried put their humiliating opening day defeat to Brighton behind them.

Erik ten Hag’s side struggled to take any of their promising pre-season form with them into the new season as they were bested by Graham Potter’s slick Seagulls at Old Trafford.

In an attempt to build the fitness of those who didn’t start on Sunday, Ten Hag organised a friendly against National League side Halifax Town at United’s Carrington training complex the following afternoon, though it’s understood wantaway superstar Cristiano Ronaldo didn’t take part – as has been the theme of his summer.