United players report back for pre-season

Manager Glenn Ferguson and his coaching staff will begin work in earnest this week, aiming to ensure that United’s players are in tip-top condition for their opening IFA Premiership match at home to Linfield on August 11.

Part of United’s pre-season programme includes a four-team tournament in Dublin which was supposed to involve Leyton Orient but the English League One side have withdrawn from the competition – hosted by St James’ Gate FC - and have been replaced by Bohemians.

United will play League of Wales outfit Port Talbot Town at 6.45pm on July 14 and will then play either Bohemians of St James’ Gate on Sunday July 15.

Still on United’s pre-season programme, their proposed friendly at Championship side Bangor on Tuesday, July 10, has been axed due to Clandeboye Road being unavailable.

Instead United will travel to Larne Tech Old Boys that night (7.45pm).

Meanwhile, the club has revealed details of its annual Open Day, which will take place on Saturday, July 28, from 12 noon to 3pm, followed by a friendly against as yet unconfirmed opposition.

Attractions include a Bouncy Castle and Giant Slide, a Tombola with lots of prizes, a DJ, a Barbecue, a Penalty kick competition, Youth Academy displays and much more.

There will also be a chance to meet the staff and players, while new replica shirts and leisurewear will be on sale.