One reason Manchester United fans should laud Aaron Wan-Bissaka’s revival

Aaron Wan-Bissaka has turned his Manchester United career back around since the turn of the year.

The right-back provided one of his vintage defensive displays in the Carabao Cup final against Newcastle on Sunday.

United won their first trophy in five and a half years and the first of the Erik ten Hag era at Old Trafford.

Wan-Bissaka was brought on at the interval after United had already gained their 2-0 lead. However, with Diogo Dalot on a yellow card and the tricky Allan Saint-Maximin on the flank, Ten Hag made the decision to make the switch.

The Newcastle winger, who had some enjoyment against Dalot on the first half, was stumped against Wan-Bissaka in the second. It was a battle of two one-on-one specialists with the United defender coming out on top.

It was only a few months ago when it seemed certain that the former Crystal Palace player would play no part in Ten Hag’s team going forward. He had not played a single game before the World Cup and Dalot was a key player for the team.

However, his chance came following that break, with Dalot missing out through injuries, and he has taken full advantage of the opportunity.

Wan-Bissaka has made 17 appearances since then and United have continued their solid form – losing just once in that time.

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The defender’s individual form has been mostly impressive, and whilst there have still been clear reminders of his limitations, there is much to appreciate about his revival in the team.

He had his injury troubles at the beginning of the season, but it seemed that there was no chance for the full-back to regain a position in the team.

However, he kept his head down and continued to work behind the scenes – there were no negative reports or comments from the defender. He would continue to put in the hard work until he was given a chance.

That might be one of the best examples of the kind of environment Ten Hag wants to build at Manchester United.

And whether or not you believe Wan-Bissaka is a long-term solution on the right side of defence at Old Trafford, it’s undeniable that when he’s facing up against a direct winger, it’s one of then most entertaining things you will see on a football pitch.