‘Play the ball’: Pundit says £47m Manchester United star’s one of the most frustrating players in his position
Posted By Joe E
May 12, 2024
6:18 pm
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Clinton Morrison has suggested that one Manchester United star is one of the most frustrating players in his position after he tried to overplay in the first-half against Arsenal on Sunday.
Manchester United actually gave a good account of themselves during the first 45 minutes at Old Trafford, despite going into the break 1-0 down thanks to a Leandro Trossard goal.
Hopes were not high for Erik ten Hag’s side following their embarrassing 4-0 loss to Crystal Palace on Monday night, with Andre Onana one of those who came in for criticism, particularly with Michael Olise’s second goal which seemed to go straight down the middle.
Onana could not have done too much with Trossard’s strike on Sunday, but he still came in for criticism during the first-half against the Gunners.
Clinton Morrison frustrated by Andre Onana
Speaking on BBC Radio Five Live (broadcast on 12/5; 16:59), Clinton Morrison was not happy with how long Onana was taking to release the ball at times against Mikel Arteta’s side.
“Onana’s the most frustrating goalkeeper, because he wants to show everyone he can showboat,” he said.
“Just play the ball, your job is to keep the ball out of the net. I know we want goalies to play out from the back, but play it quicker. If you were an outfield player, it’s different, but there’s a reason you’re a goalie.”
Manchester United goalkeeper still has plenty to prove
It will be interesting to see whether Onana’s place comes under greater scrutiny in the future as United, presumably, manage to improve.
There have been times when the £47 million man has definitely come to United’s rescue this season, and he does have the potential to be a superb shot-stopper. It is also good in the modern game that he does have confidence in possession.
However, he does not always make the right decision, and has landed United in trouble from time to time since his arrival in the summer.
And some may wonder if he could be one of the players to hold United back as they look to close that gap to the title-chasers.