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Sunday, June 12, 2011

Scouting report: How United and Liverpool's new signings fared on U21 duty

Martin Keown runs the rule over Manchester United's potential new signings and Liverpool's latest acquisition as England's Under 21 side scrambled a draw against Spain.

PHIL JONES

I was impressed by just how good a passer he is. He looked calm, composed and confident and in that sense he is similar to John Terry. He might have to curb his tendency to hit too many long balls playing for Manchester United but overall he looks very good.

Top marks: Phil Jones (centre) looked the part against Spain

Top marks: Phil Jones (centre) looked the part against Spain

JORDAN HENDERSON

He looks like a typically English box-to-box athlete with a great engine. He looks happiest arriving late in the box, although sometimes his runs were a bit predictable. He might find it tough at international level, when teams like Spain can just pass around you.

Engine room: Jordan Henderson (left) showed plenty of energy in midfield

Engine room: Jordan Henderson (left) showed plenty of energy in midfield

DAVID DE GEA

United will like the fact he wants to pass the ball out from the back. And he did little wrong. He clearly has the necessary skills but until he fills out, he will not have the same physical presence as Edwin van der Sar. For that reason, signing him could be deemed a slight risk.

Keeping it simple: David de Gea was largely untested but showed promise

Keeping it simple: David de Gea was largely untested but showed promise

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