Vitek stars but Man Utd lose pre-season opener
- Published
Young goalkeeper Radek Vitek made good use of his extended game-time with a man-of-the-match performance, but Manchester United still lost their opening pre-season game against Rosenborg in Norway.
With Andre Onana remaining in Manchester and Altay Bayindir and Tom Heaton ruled out by their respective Euro 2024 commitments, 20-year-old Vitek was the senior keeper in Erik ten Hag's squad.
The Czech produced five superb saves but Noah Holm wrecked their hopes of a draw when he lashed home in the fourth minute of stoppage time.
United staff have spent the past few days emphasising how Kobbie Mainoo came to prominence in pre-season last year.
It is debatable whether Vitek will make the same rapid progress but in front of new goalkeeping coach Jelle ten Rouwelaar, he caught the eye.
With Marcus Rashford, Casemiro, Mason Mount, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Jonny Evans part of an outfield starting line-up that was completely changed at half-time, United found it difficult at times to repel a Rosenborg side that is halfway through its domestic season.
Rashford did provide a moment to remember when he nutmegged Leo Cornig, which would have been appreciated by another new United coach, former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy.
And Darren Fletcher, who has also joined the coaching ranks following Jason Wilcox's arrival as technical director, would have been proud that his 17-year-old son Jack was given his opportunity in the second half.