Jaap Stam believes Manchester United need to become much more disciplined defensively if they are going to challenge for major honours, and he sees Matthijs de Ligt as someone who could help fix the problem.
Manchester United have conceded too many goals during the early part of the season, with Stam questioning whether the issue is individual quality or the way the team defends as a whole.
“They need to not only control the game, but defensively control the game by not giving away opportunities,” Stam told the Manchester Evening News.
The former United defender believes the answer is more about the team than individual players.
Stam backs De Ligt to help United
Jaap Stam feels Manchester United need to get back behind the ball quicker, defend as a team and stop allowing opponents so many chances.
“I think we could do better with our defensive work and getting back behind the ball quicker, defending as a unit and not giving away these opportunities,” he said.
Matthijs de Ligt could provide another option once he is fully fit. The Dutchman was enjoying the best form of his United career before suffering an injury setback.
Stam does not believe De Ligt should be expected to solve United’s defensive problems on his own, but he believes the defender has qualities that could make a difference.
“Matthijs, as I know him, and how he can play, he’s got the physique, he can play out from the back and he’s a tough defender that’s hard to get past.”
His ability to organise those around him is another quality Stam highlighted.
“He’s always trying to organise, so that can really help a team.”
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