Milk Cup organisers have expressed their disappointment on the withdrawal of Manchester United from the tournament.

United have sent a side to the competition every year for the last 25 years but have decided to break the tradition this time around under manager Louis Van Gaal.

A club statement said: "After a thorough assessment of the pre-season training needs of the first team and a detailed assessment of the medical impact of that plan on the reserves, Manchester United has decided not to enter a team in the Dale Farm Milk Cup."

Tournament chairman Victor Leonard admitted United's non-presence was a blow to the tournament: "We are disappointed by United's decision.

"It is a shock to us and will come as a huge blow to the legions of United supporters in the Province who back the club over the week of our event.

"We had written confirmation from them that they would be competing and the fact they have gone back on their word is extremely disappointing."