Former Manchester United defender Paul Parker believes that the treatment of Donny van de Beek is a reflection of the club's current situation.
United line up against rivals Manchester City on Sunday afternoon, and Parker told The Mirror why he believes the Dutchman could hold the key for United's revival.
Donny van de Beek
“I can’t understand why United can’t get him on the pitch," Parker said ahead of the Manchester derby.
“It’s an absolute waste and I don’t understand what’s going on. His treatment makes you wonder who actually signed him because it looks as if there’s a grudge against him."
Parker believes that van de Beek has the best footballing backgrond of anyone at the club, and is highly adaptable.
“He has got loads of talent, he is industrious, got a good work ethic, he can dribble around the box and play clever passes.
“He could win games because he can play in tight spaces.
“He has been brought up at Ajax to do just that and has had a better football education than anyone at United.”
Playmakers
Parker also believes that United are too wedded to a particular formation, and it is not getting the best out of the available playing staff.
“I have long questioned why United need two holding midfielders and in crucial games I believe they need more than just one playmaker in Fernandes.
“I don't see Van de Beek as a replacement for Fernandes – play them together, especially when Paul Pogba is out because United lack creativity.
“He must be very disillusioned especially with the Covid situation and not having family and friends coming over to watch him play. I just don’t get it.”
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