Writing in a blog on the club's official website, Manchester United defender Nemanja Vidic has given an insight into the club’s pre-season tour of South Africa.
The club flew to South Africa this week on a pre-season trip that will see them play three games in a week before heading back to Manchester.
Warm Welcome
Writing in his blog Vidic admitted the travelling had taken its toll, but confessed it has been worth it for the warm welcome the players had received.
“It’s been a very tiring couple of days, but the welcome we received at Cape Town airport was fantastic,” wrote Vidic before adding, “On Friday morning the players were all tired after a long flight, but seeing everyone there to greet us was unbelievable.”
Whilst this is not the first time United have toured South Africa ahead of the new season, it was the first time in the country for the Serbian defender who confessed he was thoroughly enjoying his time there. Vidic revealed: “It’s my first time in South Africa and I’m very glad to be here. I’d heard a lot about the country from some of the lads, but to see it with my own eyes is really special.”
United began their new season preparations last weekend with a game against Aberdeen at Pittodrie. Vidic played the first half in a game that United won 2-0 but admitted that phyiscally it had been a struggle. The defender said: “If I’m honest, I didn’t feel good after the Aberdeen game. It was difficult and everyone felt a little heavy-legged after a hard week of training.”
Getting Better
However, the centre back was quick to add that this was to be expected at this stage in the season. He said: “But this is the time to be working hard, to work on our fitness and sharpness. I can tell you we’re all improving, every single day.”
The club will now play games against the Kaizer Chiefs and the Orlando Pirates and despite the games only being friendlies, Vidic’s competitive streak was very much in evidence.
“I’d like to win all three matches in South Africa but, personally, the results aren't all that important – the most important thing is fitness and getting ourselves sharp before the season,” admitted Vidic before concluding, “Most of us haven’t played football for six weeks and when you’re out for that long it’s natural that you lose some rhythm.”
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