Erik ten Hag confident Sofyan Amrabat can be Man Utd's missing link
- Amrabat is nursing an injury
- Summer signing will not make his debut against Brighton on Saturday
- Ten Hag is prepared to use Amrabat in a number of different positions
By Tom Gott
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has admitted he is eager to see new signing Sofyan Amrabat return to full fitness as he can provide something which has been lacking in his current squad.
Amrabat joined during the summer from Fiorentina on an initial loan deal but arrived with a minor injury and ultimately withdrew from the Morocco squad during the international break after complaining of pain.
"Amrabat, he came back unfortunately with the injury, so he will not be available for [Saturday], but I think, on the short notice [soon], yes," Ten Hag told club media when asked whether the midfielder could feature against Brighton & Hove Albion.
Getting Amrabat back fit and healthy is among Ten Hag's top priorities as he believes the midfielder possesses the exact skillset which United have been lacking this season.
"What we missed in our squad was behind Casemiro, another one, typical holding midfielder," he explained. "So with him, we have one.
"You see the overload on games, so we need a type. But also Amrabat can play alongside Casemiro, because he is also capable to play in a higher position on the pitch, also he can play as a wing-back or full-back."
Another pressing issue for Ten Hag comes on the right of his attack. Jadon Sancho may not play for the club again after his public clash with the boss, while Antony remains in Brazil facing accusations of assault from three women.
With Amad Diallo injured, Ten Hag may have to rely on Facundo Pellistri, who has started just once for the club in three years.
Despite what appears to be a shortage of options, Ten Hag has no concerns about the make-up of his squad.
"I think we constructed the squad smart, we have many options there, so I don’t worry about that," Ten Hag stressed. "We have options to play there."
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