‘Powerful, good on the ball’: Neville thinks United have one position covered for the foreseeable future with key man

Gary Neville has singled out one Manchester United player for high praise after his recent, resurgent form.

Diogo Dalot has always been one member of the squad that has divided supporters over his suitability for the starting right-back role, however, it seems as though more portions of the fanbase are warming to the Portugal star.

He has been a mainstay in Erik ten Hag’s starting 11 this term and that’s even when Aaron Wan-Bissaka has been fit and available. In May last year, Dalot put pen to paper on a new five-year deal, keeping him tied to Old Trafford until 2028 and proving once again the faith that the manager holds in him.

The 24-year-old has often come under fire for his attacking abilities and it’s only heightened when in comparison with his Premier League counterparts Trent Alexander-Arnold, Reece James and Kieran Trippier. So far this term, Dalot has notched two goals and three assists in all competitions.

In terms of his creation, his latest contribution was perhaps the most impressive yet; he delivered an inch-perfect cross that was met sweetly by Scott McTominay, who headed home to seal a crucial victory over Aston Villa.

Neville’s praise for Dalot

Neville is already convinced of Dalot’s abilities for the long-term though, and said on his podcast: “I want to talk a little bit about Dalot, because Dalot is someone that people say about the right-back for the future for Manchester United. They might have the right-back for the future there.

“There is a lot there: he’s six foot, he’s strong, he’s powerful, he’s good on the ball, he’s not a bad defender. I think he defends his back post really well. He opens up his shoulders.”