Man Utd U23s resume their season on Friday when they travel to Derby to face the Rams’ U23s in a Premier League 2 matchup.
It has been an up and down season for the young Red Devils, but they went into the international break on a high-note, beating Leeds’ U23s by a score of 3-2. Two great goals from Amad Diallo, the winner in the final minutes of the match, was the difference.
“He comes down here, works and helps the team. He was brilliant. The little glimpses of excellence that he shows are unbelievable,” said Man Utd U23s head coach Neil Wood when speaking to MUTV.
Amad might not be in the side against Derby, the recent injury of Paul Pogba, Raphael Varane injured and the recent woes with wingers in the attacking third, Amad might make the bench for Watford.
It would be safe to let him play against the worst side in PL2. Even if he makes the bench against Watford, he might not play. Watford is a good game for someone like Jadon Sancho or Mason Greenwood to get minutes especially if United could retain the ball, where their individual styles seem more suited for.
Man Utd U23s PL 2 Season
The month of October epitomized the high and lows for the U23s this season. Two fantastic 3-0 victories against Liverpool and Blackburn were followed up by a huge 6-0 defeat to West Ham and a 1-0 defeat to Spurs.
Anthony Elanga and Shola Shoretire each scored goals in the victories over Liverpool and Blackburn. Amad’s brace sandwiched a Charlie McNeil goal versus Leeds. Man Utd have a plethora of attacking talent in their academy at the moment.
Despite having good attacking talent, they only have 18 goals this season compared to Arsenal’s U23s who have the most with 32, half the league has scored more. United have given up 20 goals this season, the 5th best out of 14 teams.
Derby, despite being last in the league with only 6 points have a slightly better defense, giving up one less goal. They do not score much, they are tied for last in the league with 15 goals. They do not lose by much, they are competitive regardless of their current standings and could give Man Utd some trouble.
Still, Man Utd U23s should get the job done against Derby. The match will be live on MUTV Friday evening.
