Through sheer persistence, Diogo Dalot has emerged has one of Manchester United’s best players this season.
The Portugal international was impressive again last night during Manchester United’s 1-0 win away at Nottingham Forest.
Dalot won the free-kick which led to Manchester United’s winner, with Casemiro heading in from Bruno Fernandes‘ delivery.
It was just reward for United’s committed performance, which saw Dalot alternate with Sofyan Amrabat across the full-back positions to best contain Anthony Elanga.
Dalot is winning over fans
Diogo Dalot’s performances this season have been largely very good. He’s not perfect, but he’s had a lot thrown at him, and no rest at all.
He has been the only full-back who Manchester United can rely on, able to stay consistently fit and play on both sides.
He should have had an assist last night with another pinpoint cross to Scott McTominay. Unlike the winner against Aston Villa, the midfielder headed this one straight at the goalkeeper.
Dalot though, is not going totally under appreciated. Manchester United fans can see what he brings to the table, and last night was another example of what he can do.
He fought for every ball, pushed up in attack, trying to make an impact in the final third, and was alert defensively throughout too.
Dalot has won over teammates
Dalot’s Manchester United teammates don’t need winning over, they are already signed up to his fan club.
You only need to look at the responses to his Instagram feed after the win over Forest, to see the respect he has.
Amad, Antony, and Kobbie Mainoo were among the players leading the plaudits for Dalot, showing what they thought of his display.
Dalot’s form has been welcome amid a difficult season for Manchester United, with the defender blossoming into the defender the club hoped he would go on to be.
Former star Cristiano Ronaldo was close to him, and Rio Ferdinand recently told how the superstar assured him that Dalot would come good. We are beginning to see it.
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