Ian Wright Singled Out One Man Utd Star for Praise After Brentford Victory

Ian Wright believes Marcel Sabitzer showed he can be a viable option in a number 10 role for Manchester United in their 1-0 win over Brentford on Wednesday night.

Sunday’s 2-0 loss to top-four rivals Newcastle players had an open discussion in the St James’ Park dressing room after what Luke Shaw called a “unacceptable” performance.

Erik ten Hag agreed with the left-back that the Magpies had more determination, passion, and desire as a result of which Manchester United rebounded three days later at Old Trafford.

Marcus Rashford’s first-half goal was the difference in a 1-0 win over the Bees – a night that may not be remembered fondly but provided a much-needed shot in the arm.

Ten Hag started Sabitzer, who joined Manchester United on loan from Bayern Munich in January, in a more advanced role against Brentford, with Bruno Fernandes dropping deep alongside Scott McTominay.

“You have to say, Sabitzer delivered today,” Wright said to Premier League Productions.

“He was getting into pockets, making some nice little moves, and always making himself available with the assist and in certain other areas.”

“In the end, he was taken off, but I thought he did more than enough tonight in that number 10 position.”

Sabitzer set up Rashford’s game-winning goal, his 28th of the season in all competitions, to give the Red Devils a crucial three points.

With the win, Manchester United moved back into the top four, and the Red Devils are now three points ahead of fifth-placed Tottenham with a game in hand.

After the game, Ten Hag said of Rashford, “Great finish.” He’s back on top and in great shape, and hopefully he can keep it up until the end of the season. Maintain his focus and energy levels, and he will score.

“This is a massive win – I admire Brentford, they play against top teams and they get results. I am really proud of my team, really happy.

“We want to play as a machine and not make mistakes – we made one mistake and thankfully, they didn’t benefit from it.”

On the victory over Brentford, Ten Hag added: “Very important win I would say. Of course, when you lose after the international break, you have to bounce back, so we did and I think it was a good performance as well.

“In the second half when we didn’t get a second goal it was more of a battle, but then saw the determination, the passion and the desire that I missed on Sunday.

“I think this is the standards we have to bring in every game. It’s not acceptable what we did on Sunday. We know that. This is not United, this is not the standards from United, so, yes, there were several things I was happy with.”