Alexis Sanchez’s imminent departure (BBC) removes another option from Manchester United’s attack.
Its hard to get too hung up on a player who scored three goals all of last season, but United are stretched. This is the result of also selling Romelu Lukaku, without signing a replacement.
Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford are currently leading the line, with Mason Greenwood next up.
Europa League football and playing twice a week will seriously test the squad, especially with Martial already nursing an injury.
In the pre-season, manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer hinted at another striker option, Dan James, and this now looks more likely after Sanchez’s departure.
Speedster
Solskjaer told the Manchester Evening News when asked about James’ position: “Obviously more right and left wing, but through the middle as well.”
We have seen James play on both flanks for United so far, and it seems only a matter of time before he ends up getting used as a striker.
This might end up being more out of necessity than choice, given United’s lack of alternatives.
James has had a bright start at United and has shown his ability in front of goal.
He has scored twice in three Premier League games, that’s more than Sanchez managed all of last season.
James has the pace to cause opposition defences problems, and as a temporary solution, he could be a useful alternative.
This would obviously leave United short on the wing, an area where we are not exactly blessed with options. Tahith Chong really needs to step up.
United are going to have to spend in January, and a striker could be high on the agenda.
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