New Reds are passing test of character

WHEN United's recruitment department was running the rule over potential signings this summer, they did more than just log on to data providers and watch matches to see how they would fit in.

-  TYRONE MARSHALL

It might have been obvious that Casemiro was the defensive midfielder the team had been crying out for, that Christian Eriksen would bring some quality to midfield, and that Tyrell Malacia could compete with Luke Shaw at left-back.

But the study of potential recruits went further than that. Background checks on the character of a player are nothing new in football, but it was prioritised in the last transfer window more than ever before at United.

It's certainly a route the club have to look at. The pressure of playing for United and walking out at Old Trafford is comparable with maybe only two other clubs in the world.

It's even more relevant at a time when the club are going through a difficult spell. The trophy drought hit five years last season and it's not only nine years since a Premier League title, but in that time they've not even challenged.