Rafa Benitez has spoken out about his decision to hand Yoshinori Muto his first start at Old Trafford on Saturday, praising his ‘mobility and pace in attack’ and his positive relationship with fellow attacker Ayoze Perez.
Prior to Saturday’s game, Muto’s only start was at Forest in the cup, with him being forced to settle for late cameos in the league, however he took his first big opportunity with both hands over the weekend.
Not only did he get on the scoresheet, but his movement and general use of the ball was very impressive – with him clearly having that turn of pace we’ve not seen for a while in attacking areas.
Here’s what Rafa’s had to say when asked why he chose to give him his first start on Saturday:
“I think it was important for us to have some mobility and pace in attack, and his understanding with Ayoze was quite good,”
“Unfortunately, Kenedy and him both left the pitch with some problems. It is just little things. Muto is his ankle, Kenedy was a knock and he was limping at the end.”
I was really impressed and feel like he’s a player who could work VERY well alongside Salomon Rondon up top.
Not only that, it was good to see Perez’s performance go up a notch as a result of Muto’s presence in the side – with his movement clearly helping the Spaniard find space.
Let’s hope his injury is nothing serious ahead of our huge game with Brighton in two weeks time.
