Former Arsenal defender Martin Keown believes Matthijs de Ligt is causing more problems than strengthening Manchester United’s defence.
The Red Devils suffered another away defeat at Spurs 0-1 on Sunday, with United captain Bruno Fernandes immediately lashing out at the Netherlands international after conceding a goal.
Speaking to Ufabet SPORT about De Ligt, Keown said: “I look at De Ligt and the money the club paid to sign him, which is a huge แทงบอล UFABET ราคาดีที่สุด ไม่มีขั้นต่ำ sum for a centre-back.
“He plays like a robot. There are times when he can clear the ball but kicks it out for a corner kick. He causes more problems for the team.”
“Reuben Amorim needs to boost his confidence. I don’t see that in him.”
Keown’s words on De Ligt’s lack of confidence certainly ring true for the majority of his teammates who are evidently nervous on the ball, something that has been echo by Amorim himself.
United’s apparent inability to adapt to Amorim’s three at the back system is causing huge problems for the Portuguese coach in his early days at Old Trafford leading to call for him to adapt his approach.
De Ligt has play the bulk of his career in a back four meaning it will take time for him to get use to Amorim’s methods along with his colleagues who look lost on and off the ball at present.
United are currently sat in 15th place in the Premier League table and still need points to avoid a relegation battle which remains a very real possibility given the team’s form and injury list.