Erik ten Hag's praise for Hannibal Mejbri should act as a warning for Scott McTominay at Manchester United
25.09.2023 - 03:57
/ manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Erik ten Hag's decision to start Hannibal Mejbri at Burnley on Saturday evening came as a surprise to many but the 20-year-old's energy was crucial in helping secure a 1-0 win.
Bruno Fernandes netted the one and only goal at Turf Moor, his brilliant volley evoking memories of Robin van Persie vs Aston Villa in 2013. But a beautiful goal was not part of a beautiful performance and United were made to fight for three points.
Hannibal was by no means the outstanding player on the pitch but the midfielder is made for the fight. His presence was an issue for Vincent Kompany's side, who enjoyed little time in build-up and were unable to create as a result.
ALSO READ: Ten Hag details how Hannibal improved United vs Burnley
ALSO READ: United duo proved critics wrong in Burnley win
"We brought some energy in the team," Ten Hag explained after full-time of his decision to give the Tunisian his first start since May 2022. "The pressing of Rasmus Hojlund and Hannibal, the togetherness, how they start the moments of the pressing, the timing was very good.
"The togetherness with Bruno and Rashy was very good. We controlled the game in that spell because they started the pressing so well and once they were beaten, there was a recovery and Hannibal did that very good."
Scott McTominay was another surprise addition to the starting line-up on Saturday evening but the more experienced midfielder struggled. He was supposed to bring more protection for Casemiro but often looked lost.
During Wednesday's 4-3 Champions League defeat at Bayern Munich, McTominay was criticised by supporters for not tracking back after losing the ball to Dayot Upamecano. The Reds man had only been on the pitch for 10 minutes but looked leggy, and defensive