Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay has garnered widespread praise following his heroic performance as a substitute against Brentford, which helped Erik ten Hag’s side secure a crucial victory and climb to ninth place in the table.
The treatment of McTominay has been somewhat perplexing, as it appeared that the 26-year-old was on the verge of leaving Old Trafford. Former United goalkeeper Peter Schmeichel, speaking on Premier League Productions, expressed his bewilderment at the midfielder’s underutilization by the Red Devils.
Schmeichel remarked, “I don’t understand what coaches are doing. Scott McTominay was listed for sale all summer, and I don’t comprehend that.” He went on to praise McTominay as a fantastic player with versatility, emphasizing the importance of having players who can perform in various positions and make a significant impact coming off the bench.
In recent weeks, McTominay has excelled for Scotland, particularly when deployed further forward for his national team. He currently shares the top spot for goalscorers in the Euro 2024 qualifiers, having scored six goals, a feat he shares with former United striker Romelu Lukaku and current United forward Rasmus Hojlund.
Over the past year, McTominay has often played alongside Christian Eriksen in a deeper midfield role before being displaced by Casemiro. While the United academy graduate has been in and out of the starting lineup, it appears that his skills could be better utilized further up the pitch.
When McTominay entered the field against Brentford, Manchester United adopted a more direct style of play, and having this versatile option in the club’s attacking arsenal could prove to be highly beneficial.
If McTominay envisions a future at Old Trafford, a shift towards playing as a striker may provide him with a pathway back into the starting lineup.