London, Jan 13 (IANS): English football club Manchester United's first team members were given a Thai boxing demonstration at Old Trafford Tuesday.

Under the watchful eyes of martial arts expert Master Sken, players like Michael Carrick, Ashley Young and Adnan Januzaj were put through their paces in the ancient method of Muay Thai, according to local media reports.

The art features kicks to the shins and the use of elbows and fists.

The session was, however, held with prior permission from coach Louis van Gaal who was assured by the club's media team that it would not involve any risk of injury.

"The guys from the media team had the idea. They are always trying to find engaging content for our audiences around the world and this was for the Manchester United app," a United source was quoted as saying by dailymail.co.uk.

"The players seemed to enjoy it and were laughing and joking about it. It was pretty light - and more of a demonstration really - I'm not sure the manager would appreciate any more injuries!"

United launched the app last February and it is available in 17 countries including Thailand, Azerbaijan and Malawi.