This article is part of Football FanCast’s Pundit View series, which provides opinion and analysis on recent quotes from journalists, pundits, players and managers…
Speaking after Manchester United’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham, Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has hailed Scott McTominay as “undroppable” following his performance on Wednesday night.
What did he say?
The Scotland international had been ruled out of action for the previous couple of weeks with an injury, and there was still an element of doubt on the eve of the game as to whether he would feature.
However, the 22-year-old was thrown straight into the starting line-up against Spurs, and in an impressive display, ran the show in the middle of the park. As per Sofascore, his 7.0 match rating was the second-highest of any United player, whilst he made three interceptions, two tackles and completed four long balls.
And speaking after the game, Solskjaer raved about the midfielder’s importance to the team, and even insisted he would have fit into the glorious teams of United’s past.
He said (as quoted by The Manchester Evening News): “You can almost say he (McTominay) is undroppable at the moment. I wasn’t gonna try to push him through for this game. The physical presence he gives us, the leadership he gives us in midfield also releases Fred.
“He’s so professional, he’s not tainted by any superstar or fame, he just wants to become the best footballer he can be and that’s the people I want in this club. He would’ve suited my squad when I played, he would’ve fit right in that squad because he’s come through the academy, he’s one of ours, he’s one of the locals and knows what Man United means.”
Lynchpin
As Solskjaer alludes to, what McTominay brings to the current Manchester United team is almost intangible. That sense of leadership from his mere presence can help bring the best out of others, and at times when players like Paul Pogba have been labelled “selfish”, the midfielder brings some welcome respite from that.
It was no surprise therefore to see United fans hail the 22-year-old’s display on Twitter after the game, with comments on how much they have missed him. If he can avoid more injury problems and remain a permanent part of Solskjaer’s side, then the Red Devils stand a far better chance of winning football matches. Talent is always necessary, but hard work is often far more important. And as the Manchester side’s boss himself says, McTominay simply wants to “become the best footballer he can be”.
Meanwhile, this Manchester United ace is quietly enjoying a revival in recent games with his far improved performances.