Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag heaped praise on Facundo Pellistri following his impressive full debut for the club against Real Betis in the Europa League.
The Uruguayan had previously made six substitute appearances for the Red Devils. He was eventually rewarded with a start yesterday after Antony was ruled out with an illness.
Starting on the right wing, Pellistri produced a lively display with three successful take-ons and six duels won. He had 53 touches while completing 29 passes and winning two fouls.
Speaking after the game, Ten Hag was delighed with the youngster’s showing over 90 minutes. He was ‘very pleased’ with his defensive work and said that it was a ‘good performance’.
He told Manutd.com: “Defensively, he did his job really well and, all over, I think it was a good performance. I think he deserved to come on. I see him progressing and getting stronger.”
“He was good when he came in against Leeds and Betis in the home game. He’s got belief and then you see his abilities. I’m very pleased with his performance.
“It was a step up for more but, once again, it is about him – what he can bring and what he can contribute to the team.”
Pellistri capitalises on Antony’s absence with top display
The youngster has been knocking on the first-team door over the past few weeks and he got his maiden start yesterday on the back of impressive cameo appearances.
Pellistri did not make a direct goal contribution in Seville but he caught the eye with his impressive movement and desire to influence the proceedings in the final third.
Ten Hag was happy to give him the full 90 minutes against Betis and the youngster will be hoping for another start in the FA Cup quarter-final against Fulham on Sunday.
Antony did not travel with the team to Andalusia due to an illness and he faces a race against time to be fit for the weekend. In our view, Pellistri deserves to make the XI again.
Jadon Sancho and Anthony Elanga can also play on the right wing but Pellistri should be the front-runner to start in the Cup tie if Antony does not pass his fitness test.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com and Sofascore.com
