Manchester United play Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday evening.
24.07.2022 - 10:39 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Donny van de Beek disagrees with Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag's verdict on his best position.
The former Ajax midfielder started alongside Fred in a double pivot during the pre-season friendly against Aston Villa on Saturday. However, the Dutchman was unable to impress as United were pegged back in a 2-2 draw when Ten Hag made several changes upon the restart. Van de Beek, 25, has work to do to force his way into plans for the opening day Premier League match against Brighton at Old Trafford.
Fred was a standout for United and Scott McTominay has been his midfield partner throughout the tour. United also continue to track Frenkie de Jong from Barcelona as question marks remain over where Van de Beek might fit into this United team.
READ MORE: Ten Hag has changed Van de Beek stance
Speaking about the player earlier this month, Ten Hag said: "He can do both [sit deep and play high]. I know that from the past, but his best position is his capabilities in the box of the opponent.
"Playing short behind the striker [is his best role]. He has a really good smell for being in the right position."
When pressed by Rio Ferdinand on a similar subject last season during his guest appearance on the FIVE podcast, the Netherlands international said: "I think what I've said before, also, I like to play eight or six. It's fine.
"They know me because in Ajax they was playing me number 10 a lot. Yeah, I can also play as a number eight or six.
"I think I can do [play as a six], but I don't know what the manager [Ole Gunnar Solskjaer] thinks or what he expects from me. I've played in this role before with Ajax.
"Of course, at the end I was playing number 10, but I also played a few games number six, I can play this role. That's
Manchester United play Brentford in the Premier League on Saturday evening.
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