Rio Ferdinand explains why he believes Erik ten Hag is using Alejandro Garnacho ‘perfectly’

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Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand believes that Red Devils boss Erik ten Hag is managing wonderkid Alejandro Garnacho “perfectly”.

The 18-year-old Argentinian sensation came off the bench to set up Marcus Rashford’s winner in yesterday’s pulsating Manchester derby at Old Trafford.

It was Garnacho’s first experience of playing against Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City and he became the youngster player in Premier League history to set up a goal in a Manchester derby.

But United’s number 49 once again made a telling impact as Ten Hag opted to bring the talented teenager on over Anthony Elanga.

Rio Ferdinand explains why he believes Erik ten Hag is using Alejandro Garnacho ‘perfectly’

Despite coming up against one of the quickest and most powerful right-backs in European football in Kyle Walker, the former Atletico Madrid youngster relished the challenge and his blistering pace was a constant threat to the Citizens.

With Walker caught high up the pitch, Garnacho turned Nathan Ake before setting up Rashford to slot home the winner in the 82nd minute.

In the biggest game of his burgeoning career to date, the Argentina Under-20 international once again made a telling contribution and showcased his blistering speed and the ability to deliver big clutch moments on the biggest stage.

The young South American now has three assists from his last four matches and has two goals and five assists from 15 appearances under Ten Hag.

The three-time Eredivisie winner’s management of Garnacho has been praised by former Red Devils centre-back Ferdinand.

Speaking on VIBE with Five, Ferdinand said: “Garnacho comes on and changes it (the game) – he is saying to the manager get me on the pitch ASAP because I’m producing moments every time I’m on the pitch, how can you make me sub.

“That’s what his performances are saying and I love it, and I think the manager is using him perfectly well at the moment because he’s impacting games.”

Garnacho’s performance also drew praise from Real Madrid and Brazil star Vinicius Jr.