Our resident Manchester United fans have been in good spirits this afternoon. That’s despite their United side’s pre-season defeat to Barcelona on Wednesday.

Neymar scored the only goal of the game as Barcelona edged it 1-0 in International Champions Cup in Maryland, USA.

The Brazilian put in a fine performance, seemingly unaffected by speculation linking him with a move to PSG, and it stayed 1-0 despite both Jasper Cillessen and David de Gea making several fine stops.

The defeat at FedExField was United’s first in pre-season, having beaten LA Galaxy, Real Salt Lake, Man City and Real Madrid.

But the result hasn’t dampened United fans’ mood ahead of the new season after notable impressive performances in Jose Mourinho’s team.

This summer’s transfer window has seen multiple players linked with moves to Old Trafford, but it’s a reoccurring few who continue to make Mourinho’s side click.

We’ve picked out TWO players who are so important to the Red Devils…

David De Gea

The Spaniard played just 45 minutes in Maryland, but De Gea’s first-half performance was world class, showing why he’s still the man at Old Trafford and will take some beating.

United fans will be delighted that the shot-stopper who very rarely makes a mistake is seemingly happy to remain at the club.

Next year, as ever, De Gea will be key – particularly as Man Utd return to the Champions League in the new season. Mourinho is lucky to have him.

Ander Herrera

Herrera missed the 1-0 defeat through injury, and his absence in the Manchester United midfield was evident.

The gutsy Spaniard regularly sets the tone for the Red Devils with his infectious energy and hard challenges. Herrera also possesses an eye for a key pass and is no stranger when it comes to getting on the scoresheet.

He has also emerged as a leader, and alongside Michael Carrick, the pair will make this side tick.