Tyrell Malacia has been praised after his performance as he replaced injured Luke Shaw in Manchester United’s win over Brentford.
Luke Shaw was making his 250th Manchester United appearance, a milestone number after signing a new contract.
Sadly it was not the special night he had hoped for. Shaw sustained an injury in the first half and was substituted for Tyrell Malacia.
This was Malacia’s first Premier League game time since 14 minutes in the defeat to Liverpool.
Malacia praised
Tyrell Malacia has proved a very good alternative to Luke Shaw this season. It’s almost unfair to describe him as a back-up, because he is good enough to be a regular starter.
We could see more of him if Shaw is forced to miss time through injury, the extent of which is yet to become clear.
Malacia had a strong night in Manchester United’s win over Brentford, helping to see out a clean sheet in the 1-0 win.
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The Netherlands international was crisp in possession, completing 97 per cent of his passes, 36 of 37 attempted.
He also created two goalscoring chances, a side of his game he needs to work on. This was a positive sign.
Malacia won two of two tackles contested and made two successful clearances.
He was praised by MUTV co-commentator David May, who said: “You know what I thought I was going to miss Luke Shaw, but Malacia has been excellent, he really has.”
Studio pundit Danny Webber told the post-game coverage: “He didn’t take any time to warm into the game.”
Malacia will likely retain his place for Saturday’s match against Everton even if Shaw makes a quick recovery. There is no need to take chances, when there is such a quality fill-in available.