Rafa Benitez has praised Yoshinori Muto’s ‘magnificent’ work rate and his ability to give us that ‘bit of pace’ in attack – with him hinting that he’ll keep his place in the starting line up with him getting ‘closer’ to his best in ‘every training session’.
Like most players from overseas, the Japanese striker has taken some time to settle into life at St James’ Park, however he took his first opportunity in the league by the scruff of the neck two weeks ago, scoring in a highly impressive display at Old Trafford.
It was his first Premier League start, however he did just about everything right. He got a goal, was a constant nuisance for a nervy Man Utd back four, he ran himself into the ground, showed a turn of pace and put in a very good all round performance on and off the ball.
Here’s what Rafa’s said to The Chronicle ahead of tomorrow’s clash with Brighton, suggesting that there is more to come from him – with him hoping that he can give us that pace and dynamism we’ve often lacked in attack:
“We expected him to make a difference and yeah he will.
“He has to improve his English but the understanding with the team-mates is there.
“His work-rate is magnificent.
“Every training session he is closer to starting games.
“Hopefully he can give us what we need which is a bit of pace and to be more dynamic in attack.”
With Rondon likely to make the bench at best if he’s fit, it’s probably between Joselu and Muto for that striking birth against Brighton tomorrow.
With all due respect to Joselu, it would be an understatement to say that I’m hoping it’s Muto that starts.
He deserves another chance after such an impressive performance last time out and a small, nippy striker like him may cause Brighton’s two bid centre-backs real problems.
It’s all I am, 100% every game from every plAyer,
It’s not happening right now though
Steve(Quote)