Manchester United boss Michael Carrick had a selection call to make in defence, and he got it right to pick Leny Yoro.
Even with Matthijs de Ligt and Lisandro Martinez out of action, Manchester United have enough defensive options to cause Michael Carrick a selection headache.
Carrick had to decide who to pick alongside Harry Maguire. Should it be Leny Yoro or Ayden Heaven?
I was on record stating before the match that I would quite like to see Ayden Heaven come in to partner Maguire.
The quick case for Ayden Heaven
Leny Yoro has been a little up and down in his recent performances. He was excellent away at Everton, and less so at home to Crystal Palace.
Ayden Heaven has been waiting for a chance, currently yet to start a game since Carrick took over. One of the best games he did have this season was away to Aston Villa.
Heaven shackled experienced striker Ollie Watkins and was one of United’s best players in the defeat. I would have been quite comfortable seeing him recalled to the line-up for this game.
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Leny Yoro proved Michael Carrick right
Michael Carrick had his own ideas, preferring to stick with Leny Yoro alongside Harry Maguire at centre-back.
The Frenchman’s performance showed that Carrick was absolutely right, helping Manchester United secure a 3-1 home win over Aston Villa.
Yoro made three successful tackles, including a well-timed sliding challenge inside his own box at the end of the first half.
He made five clearances and three interceptions, and won a total of four duels. His passing was near immaculate, with 42 of 47 attempts completed.
It was the type of calm, composed and tenacious performance you want from a centre-back, and Watkins did not get a look-in. The Aston Villa striker did not manage a single shot.
While my desire to see Heaven get an opportunity at some stage has not changed, I feel a little better about Leny Yoro after this performance.
His partnership with Harry Maguire is developing, and Michael Carrick has another tough decision ahead.
Lisandro Martinez is slated to return for Manchester United’s away trip to Bournemouth. As tempting as it will be to recall him straight away, Yoro will feel as though he deserves to retain his spot.
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