Louis van Gaal and Young both had their say, which was included in Man United’s Press Release this morning. The manager said:
“We are delighted that Ashley has signed a new contract. Ashley is a very multi-functional player. He took to the wing-back position with great confidence and flourished on the wing throughout the last season. Ashley is always very professional and has a great presence in the dressing room.”
Young was a key man in van Gaal’s team, making 29 appearances in all competitions last season, scoring two goals. However, there’s even more competition for the 30-year-old this season, with the arrival of Memphis Depay from PSV. Barcelona’s Pedro is still a transfer target for van Gaal, but would more likely feature on the right-wing, if he is to make the switch to Old Trafford.
The England international expressed his joy to continue his career with United, as he’ll be entering his 5th season with the Red Devils. Young joined United in 2011, in a £17 million deal from Aston Villa.
“I am delighted to have signed a new contract. The spirit and motivation amongst the team is very high and we are all determined to make this a season to remember. All I have ever wanted to do is play football and to be able to continue to do that at the biggest club in the world means everything to me and my family.”
Many United fans thought that Young’s performances last season were enough to earn an international call-up to the England squad, which hasn’t happened for the Stevenage-born winger since 2013. He’ll be hoping to play his part for United once again this season, as they’re looking to challenge for the Premier League title, as well as try and earn a place in Roy Hodgson’s squad for the 2016 European Championships.
