Manchester United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe
Manchester United are set to play post-season friendly matches in Malaysia and Hong Kong to raise around £8million in additional funds.
United co-owner Sir Jim Ratcliffe has implemented a raft of cost-cutting measures since purchasing a stake in the club last year and the club's scheduled trips to Asia are the latest attempt to raise extra money.
United admitted earlier this year that they were at risk of breaching the Premier League's profit and sustainability rules (PSR) and their poor performance this season means they are set to bring in less money.
The Red Devils currently sit 14th in the league and will fail to qualify for Europe unless they win the Europa League, which would lead to a major drop in revenue. As a result, the Sun are reporting that any 'dressing room moaners' who are unhappy with the post-season friendlies will be reminded that the extra cash is 'vital' because of their poor campaign.
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United are not the only team to schedule money-spinning post-season trips abroad in recent years, with Newcastle and Tottenham notably playing a one-off friendly in Australia last season shortly after their campaigns ended.
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer was particularly critical of the move, branding it "crazy" on on BBC Match Of The Day. Shearer fumed at the time: "Can you imagine if you're a player who is playing in either the Copa America or Euro 2024 having to do that?
"Madness. Crazy. I wouldn't be happy at all. It's crazy for Newcastle to go and play Spurs there on Wednesday night and then another game."
Manchester United players look dejected
United have endured a disappointing campaign
Newcastle star Kieran Tripper was also critical of the fixture, stating: "My expression says it all! It's not ideal because it's a tournament year. I understand why the club is doing it. I've done it at Tottenham and (Atletico) Madrid but from my own experience of it – in a tournament year it's not ideal.
"But we're players, we've got to do what's right for the club to move forward. When we're there it'll be good, we'll embrace it and experience it. Hopefully it goes smoothly. It's not just England, you've got so many nations and clubs. Tottenham are doing it.
"But it's one of those where you have just got to get on with it. But for me as a player it's not really ideal. It's not like it's Benidorm round the corner, it's 25 hours away. There's no excuses or anything, I understand why the club is doing it and we've just got to get on with it."
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