It has been a season of ups and downs for Manchester United. After finding a bit of stability under Erik ten Had last season, the Red Devils failed to capitalise on it and showed signs of struggle. Injury to some of the key players added to their misery. Manchester United are dealing with plenty of injury issues. Some players have recovered quite well, while others are still getting to their full fitness.
Erik ten Hag has suffered some big blows in the full-back spot. Diogo Dalot is the only player who has played regular football. The likes of Luke Shaw and Aaron Wan-Bissaka have suffered frequent injuries. Tyrell Malacia, who is their second-choice left-back is out from Day 1. Shaw came back after a brief injury spell. However, it was not a comeback he had hoped for. The Englishman left the field in one of the matches and is likely to miss the UEFA Euro 2024. This was a big headache for the club manager and the national team manager.
On stepped Victor Lindelof and there has been no turning back since then. The Swedish defender has played as a left-back since February. His last appearance came before the March international break against Liverpool. Here is a look at how this make-shift defender has been a key part of Ten Hag’s plans.
From the centre to the left
Victor Lindelof has been used as a full-back at times but only on the right side. His left foot is weak and that means that the managers are hesitant to use a player on that particular side. However, injuries left them with no other options than playing the Swedish player on the left.
In the last seven matches combined in the English Premier League and the FA Cup, Lindelof has covered plenty of areas to stop the opposition from scoring a goal. He has won 55% of his defensive duels and 51% of his aerial duels. Along with this, Lindelof makes 4.7 interceptions per 90 minutes. He made 13 interceptions against Liverpool.
In addition to this, the 29-year-old has made six crucial blocks. Most of these came on the left side of the goal.
Contributions to the attack
The Swedish defender is known for his ball-playing ability. He averages 47.8 passes per 90 minutes and delivers 91% of these passes. These include around 4.5 passes to the final third and 0.5 to the opposition penalty box. In the last seven games, he has delivered four passes to the opposition penalty box. Most of his ball progression started on the left side and Lindelof has tried to show his creative side as well.
In addition to this, the defender has taken four shots and three have found the target. He is now known for his attacking threat but these shots can give confidence to any player.
Victor Lindelof is likely to continue in the same role. He will hope to improve his performances and take the Red Devils to the Champions League.
Visuals via TFA data viz engine