United assistant boss Gus Poyet was delighted to see his players kick-off pre-season with a 2-0 win against Shelbourne on Saturday evening.

Robbie Blake and former Southampton midfielder David Prutton, one of seven trialists handed a run-out, got the goals to secure the win in Dublin.

United fielded 21 players at Tolka Park, changing 10 outfield players at half-time, were backed by a healthy support, and Gus was pleased with the outcome.

"The lads did fantastic," said the assistant boss. "Everyone showed they wanted to be part of the team, and it was very important to have a look at the players.

"We said to the players 'you have 45 minutes each so you can give it a good 45' and that's what they did.

"It was an excellent ending to a perfect first week of pre-season training.

"We also have to say thanks to everyone here. It was like playing at home with the support we had."

You can see more from Gus and from Frazer Richardson on LUTV on Monday