Manchester United legend Gary Neville has said that Wout Weghorst lacks the quality to lead the line for the Red Devils following the 2-0 Premier League defeat at Newcastle United.
The Red Devils went winless for a third straight league game after an unconvincing display at St James’ Park. Weghorst made his 19th successive start for the club but he hardly impressed.
In his 62 minutes, the Dutch international managed just 10 touches and four passes. He failed to register a shot on target and did not win any of his duels attempted against the Magpies.
Speaking after the loss, Neville said that United have a big issue with the 30-year-old. While Weghorst does not deserve criticism, he added that he lacks the quality to play for United.
He told Sky Sports (via Metro): “He does play his part. It’s a big issue. He doesn’t deserve to be criticised. I think he is doing his very best. He works as hard as he possibly can, but he just lacks the quality that a player in that position should have at Manchester United.”
“He’s filling in obviously with Martial being injured. [Cristiano] Ronaldo’s left. [Edinson] Cavani left at the start of the season. Manchester United don’t have a centre-forward, really. In order to play football really well, you have to have a good centre-forward. It’s a rule!”
Weghorst struggling to find the back of the net
The Netherlands star was signed on a temporary basis from Burnley in January after an impressive loan stint with Besiktas where he bagged nine goals and four assists.
Weghorst also produced a brilliant cameo against Argentina at the World Cup with two late goals. He has not provided the same attacking output for the Red Devils.
The Dutchman has impressed with his regular high pressing in the final third but he has registered just two goals and two assists from 19 appearances thus far.
Erik ten Hag obviously likes the commitment from Weghorst but in reality, the club need a striker that can find the back of the net at regular intervals in future.
The return of Anthony Martial is a huge boost for the season run-in but United should invest on a marquee signing with a genuine scoring record this summer.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Sofascore.com
