[Gandalf Greyhame]

@GifLord can we have please have a gif of the moment when Sanchez tried to push him off the ball but bounced off him instead?

Edit: NVM, @top1whoisman got it in his link below.

 

[top1whoisman]

Here's a short summary of his performance.

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— Twitter API (@user) date

 

[Gandalf Greyhame]

Here's a short summary of his performance.

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— Twitter API (@user) date

0:33

 

[Ashley R1+O]

Here's a short summary of his performance.

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— Twitter API (@user) date

Wow he absolutely flattened Sanchez! Nice one, thanks for the link. Didn't see the game, is he a natural fullback? I thought he was a center half. Good to see a nice balance of attacking intelligence and defensive solidity. He could very well be in the mix next season.

 

[NotQuiteManc]

Good lad. Hope he will be given more chance now that United are (almost) out of the "Top 4 Race". Probably make that right back berth his own, when Tony V would be rested though or if Mou opted for more defensive approach. Can only be good for him to learn and gain the experience from playing as FB first, like the ones before him.

 

[Rake]

Wow he absolutely flattened Sanchez! Nice one, thanks for the link. Didn't see the game, is he a natural fullback? I thought he was a center half. Good to see a nice balance of attacking intelligence and defensive solidity. He could very well be in the mix next season.

Jose said that while in the u23 etc he was playing CB, when playing against proper PL apposition he is better suited for FB, at least for now.

 

[Sammyjunn]

Better than TFM imo, much more composed, better positioning and similar physique. Will play different positions long term imo.

 

[sglowrider]

Good lad. Hope he will be given more chance now that United are (almost) out of the "Top 4 Race". Probably make that right back berth his own, when Tony V would be rested though or if Mou opted for more defensive approach. Can only be good for him to learn and gain the experience from playing as FB first, like the ones before him.

Not sure what his abilities going forward is like since I usually see him playing centre half only. If he is slotted into the RB position, he will need to go forward a lot more.

 

[sglowrider]

Better than TFM imo, much more composed, better positioning and similar physique. Will play different positions long term imo.

TFM isnt a natural defender tbf. Definitely a midfielder.

 

[roonster09]

He was very good, very composed and defensively very good. Against Sanchez he attempted 5 tackles won 3.

Hopefully next game we will see him starting as CB.

 

[SirAF]

I'd start him for every PL match for the rest of the season, to really test him ahead of next season.

 

[togg]

I love it when a youth player comes in and nails it. So happy for him.

 

[NotQuiteManc]

Not sure what his abilities going forward is like since I usually see him playing centre half only. If he is slotted into the RB position, he will need to go forward a lot more.

Yes, imagine he would be the more defensive option compared to more attacking Tony V.

I don't expect him to play more offensive but it would be good for him to gain the necessary playing time and experience first before making the CB as his own.

 

[sugar_kane]

Seemed a lot more composed in his first game than Blackett or McNair even though he was clearly nervous at the start, here's too hoping he proves himself to be significantly better than either of those.

 

[Sammyjunn]

Seemed a lot more composed in his first game than Blackett or McNair even though he was clearly nervous at the start, here's too hoping he proves himself to be significantly better than either of those.

Everyone who watches United's youth knows he is far better even prior to them making their debut. Blackett has good physique and decent left foot but so thick, McNair is just meh.

 

[SqueakyWeasel]

So you disagree we shouldn't have played youth like AT more often … and you think it's funny as

Often the case that posters who are most likely to chuck out names (you calling Mourinho a cnut) are also the more sensitive souls when criticism is fired back at them.

Often the case that people who realise they are wrong tend to deflect direct challenges too.

EDIT: @Dobbs
Didn't realise it wasn't "our" conversation when I wrote that reply, thought it was the original bloke. Sorry to offend you with my language (much more sober but still unrepentant now, btw) didn't mean to accuse you of deflection … you just butted in!

 

[Tarrou]

Think it's a bit harsh criticising him for not offering much going forward. The entire team was defensive as feck including the wide players, and he's a centre back. He did brilliantly yesterday and should hopefully push himself into contention to being a properly trusted squad player next season (for CB and RB). Right back is a good training ground for a young CB coming through because it's better to get some game-time there than none at all. If he has to wait for chances at CB only, I'd rather loan him out for a season.

 

[shield]

Why are we being subjected to watching Jones and Smalling when we have someone who is this good on the bench? Imagine Smalling being given the task to mark Sanchez, he would have got a red card even before half time.

 

[Acole9]

Why are we being subjected to watching Jones and Smalling when we have someone who is this good on the bench? Imagine Smalling being given the task to mark Sanchez, he would have got a red card even before half time.

Smalling would've just looked cumbersome and clumsy. Whilst I don't think any of the players yesterday played particularly well I do feel that Tuanzebe deserves praise for how well he coped with one of the best players in the league.

 

[NK86]

What I liked a lot about him, obviously apart from him stellar performance against Sanchez, is that when pressed/cornered he didn't just lump it blindly ahead. Yes he did it once or twice (which he cannot be blamed for as he is still a very raw youngster playing a match of this magnitude away from home) but mostly he would just dribble it out a bit and then pass it calmly to someone on our team. Compare that to how Smalling basically shites himself every time he is pressed even a tad.

 

[Dobbs]

So you disagree we shouldn't have played youth like AT more often … and you think it's funny as

Often the case that people who realise they are wrong tend to deflect direct challenges too.

EDIT: @Dobbs
Didn't realise it wasn't "our" conversation when I wrote that reply, thought it was the original bloke. Sorry to offend you with my language (much more sober but still unrepentant now, btw) didn't mean to accuse you of deflection … you just butted in!

That's kind of how a forum works. You weren't having a private discussion.

I'm not offended by swear words, I'm 35. I just find it amusing when posters have no problem calling a manager a cnut but then complain when they themselves are criticised.

 

[Raees]

Just because he was immense yesterday at RB, doesn't mean he should be seen as one of our top 4 CB's.. completely different kettle of fish, having that sort of responsibility.

I'd like to see him being given more minutes off the bench and start the occasional game at right-back. I even think he has the ball skills to play at CDM in some games.

So next year, some transitioning into the first team would be nice.. no need to rush a defensive player at this level and then maybe loan him out for a season to play full time at CB.

Looks a real prospect though, ahtleticism/skill and IQ in abundance, but does he have the mental strength - that is the key going forward.

 

[SqueakyWeasel]

That's kind of how a forum works. You weren't having a private discussion.

I'm not offended by swear words, I'm 35. I just find it amusing when posters have no problem calling a manager a cnut but then complain when they themselves are criticised.

Still think it's the descriptive I used that upset your 35 y.o. values not the sentiment behind it … do you even know what that sentiment was btw?

 

[SqueakyWeasel]

Just because he was immense yesterday at RB, doesn't mean he should be seen as one of our top 4 CB's.. completely different kettle of fish, having that sort of responsibility.

I'd like to see him being given more minutes off the bench and start the occasional game at right-back. I even think he has the ball skills to play at CDM in some games.

So next year, some transitioning into the first team would be nice.. no need to rush a defensive player at this level and then maybe loan him out for a season to play full time at CB.

Looks a real prospect though, ahtleticism/skill and IQ in abundance, but does he have the mental strength - that is the key going forward.

When we've been screaming for defensive help to rest players for bigger things this season he proved yesterday that he can more than adequately fill in … Arsenal away and keeps Sanchez quiet? Just wish Jose had have played him Hull or Bournemouth at home … and I wish he'd stop bleating about the amount of matches too! Sunday/Thursday v Wednesday Saturday is the same thing! We're Manchester United! We've only got 5 more games to go and, in a perfect season, we'd still be in the FA cup too!

 

[Raees]

When we've been screaming for defensive help to rest players for bigger things this season he proved yesterday that he can more than adequately fill in … Arsenal away and keeps Sanchez quiet? Just wish Jose had have played him Hull or Bournemouth at home … and I wish he'd stop bleating about the amount of matches too! Sunday/Thursday v Wednesday Saturday is the same thing! We're Manchester United! We've only got 5 more games to go and, in a perfect season, we'd still be in the FA cup too!

Totally agree with all of that. Just meant going forward and if we replace Jones/Smalling.

 

[redsunited]

As top 4 is out of the equation, he should be given an extended run out till season end. Although its only one game, based on it, he is the better passer among our CBs except Blind. He was also calm on one on one situation.

 

[Mihai]

Is he naturally an RB or CB? Didn't seem comfortable getting forward to provide width, but that may have also been him sticking to his instructions.

Impressive debut. Kept Sanchez quiet.

He is mainly a CB, but being so good on the ball, can play RB as well.

He didn't bomb forward because of the instructions imo.

 

[SqueakyWeasel]

Totally agree with all of that. Just meant going forward and if we replace Jones/Smalling.

Was agreeing mostly too … still 100% behind Jose he's just covering his arse … albeit with the thinnest of rizzla papers if all our eggs are in a EL final against Ajax!

 

[Raees]

Was agreeing mostly too … still 100% behind Jose he's just covering his arse … albeit with the thinnest of rizzla papers if all our eggs are in a EL final against Ajax!

Thing that no one has spoken about is that if we got CL through EPL, Klopp or Pep would be under immense pressure next year and also might have faced losing out on transfer targets.

This way, we've given everyone breathing space.

Noevertheless, if we win Europa.. who gives two fecks about yesterday.

 

[R'hllor]

Its unique feeling (at least for me) watching a kid having a really good game on senior level. There is no downside,watching them play without fear,full with desire to do good,giving their all and still not being corrupted by big money. While you watch them,every time you see them with a ball,you are on edge hoping that they will make good decision,good pass,anything positive.

Might sound weird but for some reason,every time i think about Rashfords game vs Arsenal,i get a smile on my face.

 

[JoaquinJoaquin]

As top 4 is out of the equation, he should be given an extended run out till season end. Although its only one game, based on it, he is the better passer among our CBs except Blind. He was also calm on one on one situation.

Agree in hoping he gets to start the remaining league games. Be good experience for him playing against Arsenal, Spurs, Southampton and Palace.

 

[SqueakyWeasel]

Thing that no one has spoken about is that if we got CL through EPL, Klopp or Pep would be under immense pressure next year and also might have faced losing out on transfer targets.

This way, we've given everyone breathing space.

Noevertheless, if we win Europa.. who gives two fecks about yesterday.

I'm hoping after yesterday, (don't hate me for this), that Arsenal somehow displace 'pool for the 4th CL spot. Consignigning them to the eternal hell of Europa League football next year … one down, 4 to go!

 

[GBBQ]

As top 4 is out of the equation, he should be given an extended run out till season end. Although its only one game, based on it, he is the better passer among our CBs except Blind. He was also calm on one on one situation.

I think more importantly, we can't finish lower than 6th now and Europa League is already secured through the league cup anyway so if giving him a run in the side gives Valencia or Bailly (depending on whether he plays rb or cb) some rest then its a no brainer. He'll probably be first choice defender for the final at the rate our injuries are going.

 

[Web of Bissaka]

Here's a short summary of his performance.

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— Twitter API (@user) date

Sanchez who?

Good assured performance. Relaxed passer. Stand his ground when defending.

Won't get too excited though, not yet anyway, remember McNair.

Blessing.

 

[Jig1234]

He played very well vs Arsenal out of position. We should get shot of Smalling and Jones. Give Axel a chance at CB. It's not right to use him as a RB. We should sign specialist full backs.

 

[sglowrider]

Its unique feeling (at least for me) watching a kid having a really good game on senior level. There is no downside,watching them play without fear,full with desire to do good,giving their all and still not being corrupted by big money. While you watch them,every time you see them with a ball,you are on edge hoping that they will make good decision,good pass,anything positive.

Might sound weird but for some reason,every time i think about Rashfords game vs Arsenal,i get a smile on my face.

Peado!

 

[JustJackTheLad]

I'd start him for every PL match for the rest of the season, to really test him ahead of next season.

Agree with this. I'd start as many youth as possible in the league now. Gives us something to at least cheer for!

 

[Raoul]

Had "world class" Alexis in his pocket for much of the game. Even Troopz at Arse Fan TV said Alexis had an off day.

 

[Robertd0803]

I love it when a youth player comes in and nails it. So happy for him.

Couldn't agree more.

I remember somewhere someone of note saying that its better for a young centre back to start senior games at full back to help develop further, not sure how true that is but didn't seem to bother Axel yesterday.

 

[MadMike]

He was very good but we were very negative yesterday and want to see how he performs as CB when we try to control and attack.

Our wingers got pinned back by their wing-backs because our own full-backs (Tuanzebe and Darmian) hardly ventured forward. So Gibbs and Ox hardly had to track back to help Monreal and Holding who covered the wide areas of the 3 CB partnership.

Now, I don't blame Tuanzebe or Darmian personally for that. Their instructions must have been to keep tight, especially with Tuan marking Sanchez. For a young CB making his first league start, away at Arsenal, at RB, against one of the best forwards..... it would be completely unrealistic to expect a Valencia-like performance roaming down the right flank.

But the personnel choices had the effect mentioned above. Their wing-backs free to roam. Our wingers spending more time defending that attacking. Martial desperately isolated up front. It'd be naive to not recognise the consequences of Mourinho's choices no matter how well Tuan did on a personal level.