Manchester United suffered an untimely blow yesterday after midfielder Carlos Baleba sustained a hamstring injury against Roma in the Champions League.
The Cameroonian got into a brilliant scoring position in the box early in the second half, but he pulled up before he could shoot.
He was soon replaced by Youri Tielemans, who delivered a fine performance after being an unused substitute against Chelsea.
His performance certainly impressed United legend Peter Schmeichel, who said that the Belgian ‘changed the game’ in the 3-2 comeback win at Old Trafford.
He told CBS Sports: “Youri Tielemans came on and he changed the game. That’s the best I’ve seen him play for Man United and I’m so pleased for him.
“He came into that midfield and he drove the team forward and he was a leader, it was brilliant to see.
“That for me can be a big turning point. Those players have now felt what it feels like to be a Manchester United player and play in these big European nights.”
Tielemans poised to start vs Villa
Baleba sustained an unfortunate setback against the Giallorossi last night. Andrey Santos would have been the natural replacement, but manager Michael Carrick chose an attack-minded solution.
Tielemans came on and brought a fresh lease of energy with his fine passing range. He completed 96 percent of his passes (26/27) while winning two duels and making a couple of recoveries.
The Belgian lost possession just once and drove the team forward with the ball.
His fine display has pretty much ensured that he will start alongside Kobbie Mainoo in central midfield during Sunday’s Premier League clash against Aston Villa at Old Trafford.
The £35 million signing knows the strengths and weaknesses of Villa’s midfield, having played for them for three seasons, but the same can be said for the Midlands outfit too.
Tielemans’ main concern over the years has been his limited mobility, which makes him vulnerable to the high press. With John McGinn in the opposition ranks, the Belgian faces a real challenge.
Santos is the other option at the manager’s disposal, but we still feel Tielemans will get the backing to accompany Mainoo after his promising display off the bench against the Giallorossi.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com