da betobet： Victor Lindelof’s Manchester United career hasn’t panned out as expected thus far, especially considering the fuss involved in bringing him to Old Trafford during the summer.
da apostaganha： The Sweden international looked out of his depth during his first Red Devils appearance in the European Super Cup and suffered a disastrous performance against Huddersfield last weekend, twisted inside out by Tom Ince for the first and completely culpable for the second in a shock 2-0 defeat for Jose Mourinho’s side.
Lindelof was given a chance to redeem himself last night in the Carabao Cup and certainly looked more assured in United’s back three, producing an error-free performance and playing his part in a clean sheet away from home. But the summer signing, who Transfermarkt value at £19.8million, was arguably overshadowed by one of his accomplices in defence – Axel Tuanzebe.
Mourinho is clearly a fan of the 19-year-old after issuing him a Premier League debut last season and it’s becoming easier and easier to see why.
Although the 6 foot 1 youngster didn’t have a great deal of defending to do, Swansea managing just three shots on target and taking just 43% possession, he went about his duties confidently and efficiently – although producing as many fouls as tackles perhaps suggests there are still technical improvements to be made.
But more impressive than Tuanzebe’s work at the back was his contributions on the ball; completing a whopping 97% of his passes, having the most touches of the ball of any United player and showing the confidence to twice take on his man.
It wasn’t exactly a passing masterclass from Tuanzebe – although he also produced the joint-most accurate long passes of any United player with seven – but it highlighted his willingness to take responsibility in what could have proved to be a tricky game for the Red Devils away from home. Compare that to Lindelof last weekend, who looked scared of his own shadow.
United face arguably the toughest test of their season thus far when they host Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford on Sunday, especially considering Harry Kane’s recent form away from home.
Eric Bailly looks set to return from injury in what will be a much-needed boost for the Red Devils’ defence with Phil Jones limping off against Huddersfield last weekend. But if the Ivory Coast international isn’t fit enough to start, who would you select alongside Smalling out of Lindelof and Tuanzebe?
Let us know by voting below…