Benni McCarthy names one Man Utd player he fears could struggle against Porto

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Manchester United head to Porto for an early season Europa League game which has an important feel.

After a shock defeat in their first match to Bodo/Glimt, Porto are desperate to get their Europa League campaign up and running.

Meanwhile, Manchester United are looking for a first victory after blowing a lead against FC Twente at Old Trafford.

Former Manchester United assistant and Porto player Benni McCarthy has been speaking ahead of the tie and has picked out on battle he believes could play a major role in the game.

Lisandro Martinez must watch out

Samu Omorodion is Porto’s dangerman after a summer move from Atletico Madrid. He has scored five goals in his first five games for the club.

The 20-year-old striker has been singled out ahead of the game by McCarthy, who fears Lisandro Martinez could struggle to cope with him.

McCarthy told ZeroZero: “Samu, I see some good things in him. Tall, strong, fast, but he seemed to be too far from the box in the Bodo game.

“I’m sure he can trouble Lisandro Martinez, especially since there’s a big difference in height between them.”

Former Manchester United coach McCarthy has seen Martinez hold his own against top strikers and make the height-difference a non-factor, so his comments serve to underline what an awkward opponent Omorodion could be.

Erik ten Hag was seen taking Martinez aside at Carrington in the team’s final training session ahead of the

Porto star compared to Fernandes

Benni McCarthy has made clear his admiration for Bruno Fernandes, stating he believes he is good enough to play for Real Madrid.

The South African coach recognises the importance Fernandes has to Manchester United, and believes Porto have their own talisman, Nico Gonzalez.

He explained: “I also like watching Nico Gonzalez play. I see something of Maniche in him. If Nico has more contact with the ball than he did in Norway, I think he’s a player who can make things happen.

“Like Bruno Fernandes for United. He has to be very involved in the game, involved in the action.”

The 22-year-old has scored three goals and provided one assist this season for Porto, including a strike in their 4-0 victory over Arouca at the weekend.