Former Premier League striker Clinton Morrison has slammed Donny van de Beek for his first-half performance in Manchester United's clash with Aston Villa.
Erik ten Hag's side were stunned by the home team as Villa scored twice inside the opening 11 minutes, thanks to goals from Leon Bailey and Lucas Digne. Former Arsenal manager Unai Emery would have been delighted with his new club's start, as they put United under pressure from the outset.
Bruno Fernandes was ruled out of the clash against Villa after he picked up his fifth booking of the season during the 1-0 win against West Ham, subsequently receiving a one-match ban as punishment. Ten Hag decided to turn to his former Ajax man to replace the Portuguese midfielder, yet Van de Beek failed to have the desired impact on the match.
ALSO READ: Aston Villa vs United as it happened
As the game ticked past the half-hour mark, the Dutch international took too long to release Marcus Rashford in behind Villa's defence, as the forward was flagged for offside by the time Van de Beek played his pass. Morrison proceeded to question Ten Hag's decision to play the 25-year-old, as United failed to capitalise on their chance.
He told BBC Radio 5 Live: "I think Bruno Fernandes is key for Manchester United. Donny van de Beek hasn't played a lot of football. I watched him the other night against Real Sociedad and he looked a bit short, so I was surprised and it's a big call for Ten Hag to put him in there.
"Donny van de Beek took about five years to play the ball out and that's why he isn't up to the pace with it. It was great play from Diogo Dalot, when Van de Beek gets there he should just spin it in the channels straight away. Marcus Rashford made a great run and can't get back onside by the time Donny van de Beek plays it."
READ NEXT:
