Patrick Dorgu has explained what Rúben Amorim told him before his stunning Manchester United strike against Newcastle on Friday evening.
Manchester United saw off Newcastle United with a tense 1-0 victory on Boxing Day, as Patrick Chinazaekpere Dorgu’s volley proved decisive.
United started the match on the front foot, though Newcastle began to take control after a series of early adjustments from Eddie Howe. Just before the midway point of the first half, Dorgu broke the deadlock to hand United the advantage.
The remainder of the opening period was well managed by Rúben Amorim’s side, who stayed compact and disciplined. Early in the second half, Amorim was forced into a change, with Jack Fletcher replacing the injured Mason Mount.
Newcastle controlled proceedings after the break, but United’s defence stood firm under pressure. Strong performances from Ayden Heaven, Senne Lammens, and Dorgu ensured Amorim’s side held on for a valuable clean sheet.
The win secures three important points and lifts United into fifth place in the Premier League, with several teams yet to play later in the weekend.
Amorim working on Dorgu’s confidence
A few weeks ago, Amorim admitted that he felt Dorgu had been far too anxious during games in the last few months, amid criticism of the Dane’s lack of threat in the final third from the left wing-back position.
However, his performance against Newcastle, particularly in the first half, was marked by dominance, assurance, and composure, culminating in his brilliant, winning strike.
Speaking to Sky Sports after the game, Dorgu revealed that this had been a topic of conversation between him and the United boss.
“Yeah, I just took what he told me, to work on my confidence and stuff,” the 21-year-old said when asked what Amorim had told him ahead of the game. Yeah, I think I did well today. I just looked at the ball, and I saw it drop, and I just hit it.
Further, he was asked if Amorim had spoken to him about his finishing, to which he replied: “No, I’ve been practising and training, so I think that’s what helped me.”
Dorgu could become the multi-functional asset Amorim needs
In every team, whether you’re challenging for a title, chasing a top-four finish, or battling relegation, having multi-functional players is a key asset. Under Sir Alex Ferguson, the likes of Michael Carrick, Ji-Sung Park, and John O’Shea are key examples.
Read More: Rúben Amorim can answer Jamie Carragher’s ‘big question’ vs Wolves after he ‘fooled’ Eddie Howe
At United, this has been a problem. Far too often in the last decade, the club have signed players who have needed perfect conditions to thrive, and have fallen away once conditions became harsh.
However, under Amorim, Dorgu could become. aplayer he needs. If the Dane can increase his consistency in the final third while maintaining his defensive talent, he could be a utility player that every squad needs.
With the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Amad, and Lisandro Martínez all possessing similar qualities, AMorim will be able to adapt to multiple systems and formations throughout games and entire seasons, which would add a much-needed layer of complexity to his football.
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