Portugal boss Roberto Martínez reveals surprise trait Diogo Dalot has – “It’s not easy”

Manchester United defender Diogo Dalot has been praised by his national team manager for being “fantastic.”

After starting on the left side for United so far this season, Dalot, 25, returned to his usual right-back position for Portugal’s recent match against Croatia, excelling as Portugal went on to win 2-1.

Assisted by Bruno Fernandes, Dalot would open the scoring for Portugal, before being unlucky to deflect a shot into his own net shortly before the end of the first half.

Despite that own goal, Dalot’s performance both in the game and in training saw him earn the praise of current Portugal and former Premier League manager Roberto Martinez.

Speaking in an interview after the game, Martinez highlighted how the national side are working on several new ideas, all of which Dalot has quickly adapted to.

“It makes a difference that we have different options and we can execute them after three training sessions,” Martinez told O Jogo. “There is work and continuity. Dalot and Semedo can play inside and outside.

“Croatia had difficulties with the breaks inside that Dalot executed very well.

“I really liked Dalot, the principle of play hasn’t changed. He’s fantastic and speaks volumes about the players, it’s not easy to have these tactical concepts in three training sessions.”

Martinez has on several occasions praised Dalot, including back in December of last year, where he labelled Dalot as, “One of the most important players for the club.”

A stalwart for United over the last few seasons, Dalot’s 161 appearances for the side put him amongst the highest for those currently still at the club.

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