Aheed Abrar
Manchester United told they play with “10 men” when Wout Weghorst is on the pitch
British sports presenter Richard Keys believes Manchester United play with “10 men” when Wout Weghorst is on the pitch for the Red Devils.
The 30-year-old signed for the Old Trafford side on loan from Burnley in January. Since making his way to Manchester, the Holland international has had to feature heavily in the starting lineup.
Anthony Martial has been Erik ten Hag’s first choice in the number nine position. However, the France international has struggled with injuries this season and has often been unavailable for selection.
However, speaking on beIN SPORTS (h/t Daily Mail), Keys feels United are at a disadvantage when Weghorst starts. The British presenter feels the Holland international does not do enough when on the field.
“You’re playing with ten men most weeks if he’s in. I mean, he doesn’t do enough to justify a starting place does he? Come on, let’s be honest!”
The 30-year-old has had to quickly come into the fold and contribute. In the current campaign, the striker has made 10 appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils, scoring one goal and providing one assist.
Erik ten Hag has also been flexible with the deployment of the former Wolfsburg star on the pitch. The Dutch manager has on a couple of occasions, opted for the Burnley loanee in the number 10 position, with Marcus Rashford up top.
No player won more tackles in the first half than Wout Weghorst (4/5).
— Statman Dave (@StatmanDave) February 19, 2023
You can’t escape him. 🛡️ pic.twitter.com/UJKVR3QGeN
The system worked well against Barcelona in the Europa League, where the 25-year-old found the back of the net in the 2-2 draw. With Weghorst’s constant work rate off the ball, other players evidently benefit.
Against Leicester in our last match, the 30-year-old was often seen chasing lost causes. The Holland international was also back in defence, helping the team out in certain instances.
Having started in the playmaking role against the Foxes, the gaffer deployed Weghorst as a striker after half-time. The Red Devils gained control of the fixture. The Holland international’s industry up top seemingly made the difference.
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While Keys is entitled to his opinion and the 30-year-old leaves a lot to be desired in front of goal, his effort cannot be discounted. Ten Hag has managed to make it work and we have gotten positive results with the Burnley loanee on the pitch.
