Manchester United have endured a difficult start to the new season, with injuries causing havoc at Old Trafford and one of Michael Carrick’s stars have given him a fresh issue
Michael Carrick
Patrick Dorgu has spoken out on his role under Michael Carrick(Image: Getty Images)
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Manchester United star Patrick Dorgu claims he would prefer to play in defence for the Red Devils, having been asked to deputise elsewhere by Michael Carrick. The Danish star initially joined the club as a left-back from Italian club Lecce, but has generally played further forwards during Carrick's time in charge.
Dorgu has moved back to his preferred position over recent weeks, with Luke Shaw out injured. And while the 21-year-old has recognised that he is versatile and can compete with Marcus Rashford on the left wing, he is clear about his preference.
“I’d prefer to have one fixed position. It makes things easier to work on during training. But many players today can play multiple positions,” Dorgu told Danish outlet Tipsbladet.
“I just want to be on the pitch, regardless of the position. I started my professional career as a left-back, so that feels most natural to me, but I can also play the attacking roles I do at United.”
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Dorgu has already made six appearances for United this season and has notched two assists. Despite that, things haven’t quite gone to plan, with the Red Devils having only won one of their opening five Premier League games.
He remains determined to show his worth to boss Michael Carrick over the coming months. He added: “There is stiff competition for places from talented players.
“There’s a left-back (Shaw) who has been at United for 12 years. And then there’s Rashford, who has just returned from Barcelona, where he performed well.
Patrick Dorgu
Dorgu has played in a number of positions for Manchester United(Image: Getty Images)
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“We also have [Matheus] Cunha, who performed well during the months I was injured. So, there are three really good players who have done well in the Premier League.
“It’s a challenge, but competing against such good players is also what can make me a better footballer. I can learn from them, and when I get the chance, I need to show the coach that he can rely on me.”
Dorgu is currently with the Danish national team for the first international break of the campaign. His country are set to do battle with Norway, Wales (twice) and Portugal over the coming weeks.
Following his international commitments, Dorgu will then turn his attentions back to United and their efforts to rise up the table under Carrick. Their first assignment pits them against fellow strugglers Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. In all, Dorgu has made 54 appearances for United since his arrival and has scored four goals.