Rio Ferdinand Responds to Gary Lineker’s Criticism of Amad at Manchester United
Gary Lineker and Rio Ferdinand express opposing opinions on Amad’s role and performance at Manchester United following the 2-2 draw with Nottingham Forest.
Gary Lineker’s Critique
“And Amad was probably a really good example of that [the problems with the system],” Lineker said on The Rest Is Football podcast. “You could see the positives of his game, but also the fact that he’s not a defender and he’s been asked to play as a wing-back and he’s not a wing-back; he’s a winger or a forward.”
Rio Ferdinand’s Counterpoint
Ferdinand disagrees with Lineker’s negative assessment of Amad’s adaptation to the position, highlighting his contributions rather than his limitations.
“I think we get too caught up in what players can’t do. He is giving us so much going forward. His partnership and his telepathy with [Bryan] Mbeumo. For what he’s giving you going forward and what he’s giving the opposition winger, they are having to chase him half the time. That’s what you want, them on the back foot. I just think he’s a wonderful footballer.
Would he be better as a right winger? I think he would be, but that’s not detracting away from what he’s doing. I think he’s just what this team need in this position right now.”
Context of Tactical Discussion
- Lineker’s argument centers on Amad struggling in Ruben Amorim’s 3-4-2-1 system, which asks him to play wing-back.
- Ferdinand focuses on Amad’s offensive threat and disruptive presence against opponents, emphasizing his current value to the team.
Author’s summary: Rio Ferdinand defends Amad’s role at Manchester United, highlighting his attacking strengths despite Gary Lineker’s concerns about his suitability as a wing-back.