Despite comments from the player’s agent suggesting otherwise, it is still possible Tahith Chong has a future at Manchester United.
Chong’s agent Erkan Alkan last week told Voetbal International, amid links to Juventus and Inter, “He [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] has different views on Tahith than the leadership.
“A coach thinks about himself, I think about my player. He has come to a point where he feels that he is not going any further. Then it’s time to look further.”
Well it would have been very easy for Solskjaer to axe Chong after that, but he has shown he still believes in the 20-year-old contract rebel.
Chong was included in United’s matchday squad against Tranmere in the 6-0 win and came off the bench.
How did he do?
Chong did not transform into a world beater overnight just because he was playing against a League One side.
But he did have a positive impact on the game, winning the penalty for Mason Greenwood to score United’s sixth.
He came close to adding a seventh too, crashing a shot against the bar in the game’s final stages.
That was one of two shots he had, amid 41 touches overall in his 45 minutes. He completed 88 per cent of his passes and created one chance.
We want to see a bit more from him, but this was a small step forward, even if it was not the leap he needs to take.
Short term option
Chong’s long term future at United remains unclear, but Solskjaer still believes the Dutchman has a role to play in the present.
United simply do not have many options, and this is giving Chong a lifeline.
Dan James has looked shattered in recent games and needs a break. He got a total rest against Tranmere where he was an unused substitute.
At the very least, Chong should be used to split the load with James and provide some relief for the Welshman.
United should even consider giving Chong a start against Manchester City in midweek to keep James fresh to face Wolves.
What all of this means for Chong’s future at United is unclear, his agent clearly wants to get him away from Old Trafford.
But if the Dutchman can make the most of his chances and start influencing games, he will earn more opportunities, and might even decide to stay.
Sunday’s win was ‘only Tranmere’, but to Chong, being involved in the win probably mattered more than most.
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