Ahead of facing Aston Villa, Erik ten Hag has claimed that one thing would fix all the problems on display at Manchester United this season.
The list of problems plaguing Erik ten Hag’s Red Devils this season seems endless, but undoubtedly one of the biggest issues has been the defensive structure on the left side.
Lisandro Martinez and Diogo Dalot have been awful in recent weeks, with the system exposing both and costing Manchester United lots of goals – with six conceded in the last two games.
It has gotten to the point where change is needed. However, Ten Hag seems to have no plan on how to solve it as he explained in his recent press conference.
However, the problem Ten Hag has been describing might already have a solution.
Harry Amass could answer Erik ten Hag’s problem
Speaking after the Porto draw in an embargoed press conference, Ten Hag was asked about his decision to use Dalot at left-back, to which the Dutchman issued an interesting response.
“For a long time we have had a personnel issue there, so definitely we will improve as a team if we get that consistent left-footed left fullback.
This is a rather bizarre comment from Ten Hag considering he already has Harry Amass waiting in the wings. Although it is also in relation to the injury problems of both Tyrell Malacia and Luke Shaw.
The 17-year-old fits the bill perfectly and despite concerns over Amass’ physical readiness for senior football, there might not be any other option.
Ten Hag already made a mistake in letting Alvaro Fernandez head to Benfica, with the Spaniard already showcasing immense ability which will have United ruing his sale.
Amass is left-footed, excellent on the ball and showed this in pre-season, even assisting against Real Betis. The English youth international has been tipped by Charlie Daniels as a future world-beater at left-back and so it could be time Ten Hag turns to him.
Manchester United would benefit from Amass at left-back
At just 17, Amass is far from perfect and complete in his development as a left-back.
However, the mere fact he is a natural in the position would be an improvement on this version of Dalot which has emerged in recent weeks.
Having Amass in the team as a more traditional left-back would mean there would not be massive gaps – which are a product of Dalot inverting – causing Martinez to also look poor.
Amass has plenty to work on and his awareness must improve – but if Ten Hag really thinks a left-footed left-back can solve his problems, then he should turn to Amass.
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