Paul Merson compares Man United star’s key contribution to David Beckham

Add as preferred source on Google

Paul Merson has praised one Manchester United star and labelled one of his actions during the game as a David Beckham moment.

A Diogo Dalot cross for Scott McTominay won Manchester United the game at Villa Park in what was a dramatic 2-1 victory for the Red Devils against Unai Emery’s side.

United were being peppered in the second half from the Midlands side and Aston Villa were probably kicking themselves that they didn’t get anything from the game.

For the Red Devils, however, this victory has propelled them right back into the race for Champions League football and could be the kickstarter to a big end to their season.

Merson on Dalot

Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, the former Arsenal midfielder has hailed the cross from the Portuguese defender, who put the ball on a plate for Scott McTominay, who finished brilliantly.

“That’s a David Beckham cross… you’ve just got to get on the end of it,” Merson said after the game.

This season has been something of a breakthrough for the Portuguese right-back who has found the consistency in his game that he has been crying out for.

Towards the second half of last season, Aaron Wan-Bissaka had overtaken the Portuguese defender and was first choice but the roles have now reversed hugely.

Speaking after the game, Erik ten Hag was keen to praise the Portuguese defender for his performance.

“Everyone gets criticism but he is a fantastic player who is developing very well,” the Dutchman told Match of the Day 2.

“He can play in so many positions and he is improving on crosses. He can score and his defending is improving so I am very pleased with him.”

Dalot’s season

This season, the 24-year-old has discovered a new dimension to his game and has improved defensively ten-fold and he is the first-choice right-back.

He is now the undisputed first-choice for Ten Hag and his cross for the winner was a superb one. Dalot, alongside teenage midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, has been one of the few bright sparks this season.

The club have been linked with a new right-back for a couple of years now but if Dalot’s performances continue as they have been, this search will soon be coming to an end.

READ MORE: Join the conversation with the United in Focus Whatsapp group