Ruben Amorim has revealed a tactical change he is expecting from his players in Manchester United’s clash with Everton.
Manchester United are prepared for their first game after the international break and will be hoping to continue their solid form.
The Reds had won three and drawn two of their last five Premier League games, and a victory against Everton would see them close in on the top four.
Ruben Amorim has been forced to switch things up in attack following the injuries of Benjamin Šeško and Matheus Cunha. Amad has stepped into the forward line while Joshua Zirkzee makes his first start of the season.
The Toffees will certainly not be pushovers at Old Trafford, and David Moyes will have his side ready to battle against United.
Amorim reveals United tactical change for Everton clash
United’s good run of form has coincided with Amorim’s decision for the team to be much more direct in possession. Long balls into the frontline has been the team’s primary form of progression in recent weeks.
While that can be very useful, the Reds also need to ensure that they are not predictable and can mix things up when trying to build up, and that is something Amorim reminded his team of before the game.
“I felt in the last two matches that we are kicking the ball [long] too often, and the opposition already knows we are going to do that,” the United boss told Sky Sports ahead of kick-off.
“We need to stay true to our way of playing and push them again. It is always about trying different things against the opponent.
“But honestly, it is mainly about not losing possession near our box, because you can see we still struggle when it comes to defending that area.”
United need to keep opponents guessing
It has certainly not been a bad idea for United to have a more direct approach on the ball. The team can sometimes crumble when trying to play out against strong presses.
But Amorim clearly doesn’t want that to be the only way United progress the play and the players need to keep their opposite numbers guessing.
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The fact that United have been dangerous with long balls this season should also mean that the opposition are more wary of that threat and spaces can be made in build-up to play out.
Everton are not going to sit back and allow United to play out, but it is also unlikely that they are pressing high as there will be that threat in behind.
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