Scott McTominay once again proved his importance last night, this time scoring in spectacular fashion against Patrick Dorgu’s Denmark.
The great ‘Scott’s’ brilliant bicycle kick opened the scoring for Scotland after just three minutes, and Shankland’s goal later on helped keep the World Cup dream alive. His strike helped the Tartan Army push toward qualifying for the World Cup for the first time since 1998; it was an encounter that had everything.
Scotland knew only a win would do. It went from ecstasy to agony when former Red Rasmus Højlund and current Red Patrick Dorgu appeared to spoil the celebrations, but Scotland believed and came searing back when Kieran Tierney scored a stoppage-time screamer – sending Hampden Park hysterical once more.
Kenny McLean sealed the win with an audacious attempt, looping it over a helpless Kasper Schmeichel. As Sir Alex Ferguson once said: “Football, bloody hell!”
Since departing Manchester United, Scott McTominay has become one of the most influential players in world football, and his Ballon d’Or nomination proves that. His contributions last season helped Napoli secure the Scudetto; he is the darling of Naples and Scotland’s favourite son.
It begs the question: why did United let him go?
Were United right to sell McTominay?
It is important to provide context here, first and foremost. The manager at the time, Erik ten Hag, did not want to lose McTominay but was reportedly overruled by the hierarchy, given that his sale represented pure profit.
Were United right to sell him? It is a debate that resurfaces every time he pops up with a piece of magic, which is becoming more and more common these days.
In hindsight, no – but McTominay would have been shoehorned into a position that would not get the best out of him, had he stayed.
His impeccable timing arriving in the box, which so often leads to goals, would have added immense value to United. But hindsight is always a wonderful thing.
At Old Trafford, his strengths were underused for much of his time there, which partially explains why he was sold – fans saw only flashes of the brilliant player he has blossomed into. He is bursting with belief in his own ability, confidence he lacked at United.
Would McTominay Have Fit Into Amorim’s System?
Rúben Amorim’s favoured 3-4-2-1 shape thrives on vertical movement, possession, and rapid transitions. It is a system that demands athleticism in midfield – and McTominay has that in abundance.
His best role – the late-arriving, box-crashing presence – is now occupied by the new signings. United have brought in Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo for the inside-10 positions, the very areas where McTominay would thrive
Read more: Man Utd reply to star who ‘wants January loan’ by explaining transfer terms to Serie A giants
The only remaining option would be the double pivot alongside Bruno – and that is where he would be restricted. McTominay wouldn’t be the marauding menace he has become in Naples – forced into a role that stifles his instincts.
The Scotland international has begun to play off the left flank this campaign, with Kevin de Bruyne playing in central midfield instead. He could combine his box-crashing ability with his newfound experience on the left wing to really shine for Amorim’s side.
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