Rúben Amorim must change one Manchester United star’s position during December after a 2-1 win over Crystal Palace on Sunday afternoon.
Manchester United completed an impressive comeback on Sunday, with second-half goals from Joshua Zirkzee and Mason Mount securing a 2-1 Premier League win over Crystal Palace.
Both sides created early chances as Jean-Philippe Mateta and Casemiro went close inside the opening 10 minutes, with the intense South London sunshine making conditions difficult. Palace soon gained the upper hand and were rewarded when Leny Yoro brought down Mateta in the box.
The Frenchman’s first penalty was ruled out for a double-hit, but he made no mistake with the retake. The hosts continued to apply pressure, while United struggled to find rhythm before the break.
United showed greater purpose after half-time and found an equaliser through Zirkzee. The Dutch forward controlled a Bruno Fernandes free kick on his chest, turned sharply and finished from a tight angle past Dean Henderson to bring his side level.
With 30 minutes remaining, a clever set-piece routine saw Mount fire United into the lead. Palace threw everything forward in search of a response, but Rúben Amorim’s side defended resolutely to see out a valuable three points.
Fernandes’ position must change in December
Fernandes secured the assists for both of United’s goals on Sunday afternoon and ‘masterminded’ United’s comeback, although most of the credit for both goals have to go to the fantastic strikes by Zirkzee and Mount.
While the club captain was playing in the middle of the park once again, all of his best actions were when he was within ten yards of Palace’s penalty area.
In the second half, with United under the cosh and trying to see out the result, Fernandes had some heart-stopping poor moments and passes that, on another day, could have cost the team. While he is good in a pivot, he’s best in the attack.
Bryan Mbeumo and Amad are the two attacking players departing for the Africa Cup of Nations in early December, and Amorim must look to move Fernandes to the right of the front three, and therefore closer to the area.
Fernandes change also gives Mainoo hope
If Ferenanes were to move into the front three across December, there will therefore be opportunities for talented midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to feature.
United’s right side will be left significantly weakened during the tournament, potentially allowing Fernandes to shift into that advanced role and leaving space for Mainoo to operate in a deeper midfield position.
Alternatively, Rúben Amorim could opt to rest Fernandes for some of the midweek fixtures to keep the Portuguese captain fresh, which would again open the door for Mainoo to start.
If Amorim continues to leave Mainoo on the bench despite these increased opportunities, it would be a telling indication that the youngster may not be part of the head coach’s long-term plans.
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