Napoli beat AC Milan in a big clash at the top of Serie A with a mixed verdict delivered by the Italian press on Scott McTominay's performance
Scott McTominay played an important role in Napoli's win over AC Milan
Scott McTominay was unusually quiet in Napoli's win over AC Milan(Image: (Photo by Matteo Ciambelli/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty Images))
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Scott McTominay endured a subdued evening for Napoli by his own high standards. The former Manchester United man was described as having little impact in the 1-0 victory over AC Milan on Monday night.
Antonio Conte's outfit climbed above their rivals into second place thanks to Matteo Politano's 79th-minute strike. Napoli now trail Serie A leaders Inter Milan by seven points following their 5-2 triumph over AS Roma on Sunday.
McTominay completed the full 90 minutes for only the second occasion since late January, having sat out four matches through injury during February and March. Conte will undoubtedly be pleased to have the 29-year-old back at full fitness, but sections of the Italian press didn't hold back on his lack of contributions.
At the same time, however, there were also warm words for his work rate, as well as the unselfish role he was asked to fulfil in a tightly-contested match for Napoli.
Tutto Sport
While McTominay had no direct influence on the outcome, Tutto Sport were eager to highlight his off-the-ball endeavour and support for centre-forward Giovane Nascimento.
He was rated 6.5/10, with their description of his display stating: "He often rises to support Giovane to give the team a solution on high balls, a 'plan B' that becomes the main one when Conte puts him in charge. He doesn't do badly, but it's a game of great tactical sacrifice."
Gazetta dello Sport
The fixture between Napoli and AC Milan was largely uneventful, with McTominay among several players who struggled to leave their mark on proceedings. This was precisely what Gazetta dello Sport highlighted, noting he was "silent" until collecting the ball inside the penalty area after 50 minutes.
Scott McTominay of Napoli reacts
Scott McTominay divided the opinion of Italian media with his Napoli display on Monday
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His overall performance was also labelled "average" by the Italian outlet, who subsequently noted in their player ratings that he "deserved a 6."
Il Napolista
The ex-United midfielder showed considerable improvement in the second half of the victory over Napoli, with Il Napolista particularly acknowledging his upturn in form as the match progressed.
"The first half isn't great, but in the second half Scott the Red takes on the role of a vertical man and Naples finds its way back to the centre." He received a 6/10 for his overall display.
Il Messaggero
Il Messaggero were considerably harsher in their verdict on McTominay, awarding him a 6/10 and choosing to highlight his unsuccessful bicycle kick attempt above all else.
No acknowledgement was made of the selfless role he was required to fulfil in helping Napoli claim a fifth straight victory. They noted: "Less explosive than usual. He only made his mark with an attempted overhead kick at the end of the first half."