Erik ten Hag says Facundo Pellistri could play a role in his attack

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Erik ten Hag says Manchester United youngster Facundo Pellistri may have won him over in a behind closed doors pre-season game.

Speaking to the club website ahead of last night’s clash with Nottingham Forest, Ten Hag explained that Pellistri could be part of his solution in attack.

This was despite Pellistri failing to make the bench for last night’s game. It’s possible this was illness related rather than a pure selection decision, with Victor Lindelof and Scott McTominay also out.

Ten Hag had said the Uruguayan is one of a trio of young players who can strengthen the team in the weeks ahead, irrespective of players coming in.

Ten Hag says Pellistri could play a role

Ten Hag explained: “There are two things. One, a striker could come from our own club, see Garnacho, see Elanga, see Pellistri who made a good impression at the World Cup and also last week in the [behind closed doors] game against Everton. So that is first.

“And yes, we are aware that we lost a striker, so we do have to get a striker in. But it has to be the right one.

“And the right one has to bring the quality and not just add to the squad. Because that gives you only problems and you know the criteria is high at Manchester United.”

Ten Hag has lots of options in attack, shown by Pellistri’s presence, a player he has chosen not to use so far.

This could be about to change, with the Uruguayan seemingly convincing him that he can play a part in the weeks ahead.

A new striker is still likely to join, and it’s easy to be dubious over Ten Hag’s words on Pellistri, given that his actions have so far declined to give him an opportunity.

But let’s wait and see. United have cup games in early January against Everton and Charlton, both of which could see some rotation.

If Pellistri gets his chance he could take it and not look back. These comments are the most positive Ten Hag has been about the Uruguayan all season, so there is reason to be encouraged.

The situation could change in late January if Pellistri is still not getting chances. Expect a loan deal to be agreed at that stage, or even a permanent exit, however, over the next two to three weeks, he may just get his breakthrough.