Manchester United are gearing up for Thursday evening’s Carabao Cup quarter-final away to Tottenham Hotspur in North London.
The fixture provides Ruben Amorim an unmissable opportunity to book his side’s place in the competition’s semi-finals. Should he go on to lift the trophy, it’d give the Old Trafford faithful some much-needed joy after a turbulent campaign.
It won’t come easy, though. Tomorrow’s tie arrives at a relatively ideal time for both clubs; United are on the back of an emphatic Manchester derby win at the Etihad, while Spurs hammered Southampton 5-0 away from home, prompting Russell Martin to be relieved of his duties almost instantaneously after the full-time whistle blew.
All five goals were scored in the first 45 minutes, meaning Ange Postecoglou was able to tell his men to take their foot off the gas in the second half. Then, attention could fully turn to hosting the Red Devils.
Amad earns high praise from ex-Serie A teammate
(Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)Amorim’s frequent line-up rotations mean fans are left pondering over the exact XI until it’s officially announced. However, you would expect that those who shone against Manchester City will retain their places for such a high-stakes clash, including derby-day hero Amad Diallo.
The Ivorian livewire oversaw yet another scintillating showing after being given the nod by Amorim. He recorded a 94 per cent pass accuracy, won seven duels, completed five dribbles and took four shots.
Yet, what really stole the headlines was his match-winning exploits in the dying embers of the game. He won the spot-kick, which led to Bruno Fernandes’ equaliser before finding the back of the net himself with a remarkable touch and finish, sending the rest of the squad and the travelling supporters into absolute bedlam.
He was singled out for praise by in-form Spurs talisman Dejan Kulusevski this week, whom he played with during their time at Atalanta.
“His talent is unbelievable,” the Swede told Hayters TV. “He’s been by far one of their best players this season. He has so much talent.”