It is unclear where Patrick Dorgu fits into Manchester United’s starting lineup since the sacking of Ruben Amorim.
Patrick Dorgu was Ruben Amorim’s first signing as Manchester United head coach when he arrived from Lecce last January.
The 21-year-old was signed as a specialist wing-back for Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 shape, but United are now reverting to a four-at-the-back since the Portuguese coach was sacked.
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Dorgu has shone as a wide attacker in recent weeks, but he would face stiff competition for a starting spot once Amad Diallo and Bryan Mbeumo return from AFCON.
Darren Fletcher decided to rest Luke Shaw and start Dorgu at left-back in the 2-1 defeat to Brighton in the FA Cup on Sunday afternoon, and one stat will have United chiefs worried.
Manchester United vs Brighton in the FA Cup.
Photo by James Gill – Danehouse/Getty Images
Patrick Dorgu concern in Brighton defeat
Dorgu showed some glimpses of promise against Brighton, and going forward he was actually one of United’s biggest threats.
The Denmark international combined well with Matheus Cunha and completed some dangerous dribbles.
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However, SofaScore statistics expose one of Dorgu’s biggest flaws, and it is one that should concern United moving forward.
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Dorgu lost possession a staggering 20 times against Brighton – more than any other United defender. Only Matheus Cunha and Bruno Fernandes lost possession more.
But United cannot afford for a defender in a back four to be surrendering possession as often as Dorgu did against Brighton.
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Dorgu has actually been on an impressive run of form, but he is one of several players who should be nervous about Ineos’ next appointment.
Jason Wilcox’s game model includes wanting to play a four-at-the-back formation, and Dorgu could quickly fall out of favour under a new head coach.
Shaw is a world-class left-back on his day, and he has started every Premier League match for United this season.
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Dorgu is versatile and can play further forward, but it’s hard to see him challenging the likes of Matheus Cunha or Mbeumo for a starting spot.
The Brighton defeat is expected to be Fletcher’s final game in charge, so Dorgu will be paying close attention to the next appointment.
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