Troy Deeney has hit back at criticism from Manchester United fans (Image: Getty)
Troy Deeney has hit back at Manchester United fans who criticised his view that Erik ten Hag should complete a deadline day switch for Raheem Sterling. The former Watford striker believed Sterling would have been an excellent addition to United’s attacking options.
Deeney says he struggles to name the Red Devils’ best forward. When Sterling became available following his banishment at Chelsea, the 36-year-old suggested the Old Trafford outfit should attempt to complete a deal.
“When I look at that Man Utd squad, I don't know the dynamic. Who's their best winger right now? On paper, Rashford, but he's not showing it. Garnacho is young, Diallo is young as well,” Deeney told Seaman Says, via Betway.
Our community members are treated to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. You can check out at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“Then you've got Antony, who they spent £80million on, and he doesn't seem to be able to make it off the bench. I did a piece when Sterling was linked and saying that I think he's better than everyone they've got currently. Man Utd fans slated me, Arsenal went and signed him, so he can’t be that bad.”
Deeney also has reservations about some other aspects of United’s summer business. He insists Joshua Zirkzee has a profile better suited to playing as a creative midfielder, and thinks Ten Hag should have signed a forward more similar in mould to Erling Haaland.
He continued: “I don't think Zirkzee is a striker. I always watch strikers, and he moves like a No. 10. He always wants to come off the top line to get involved, and he always arrives late to the box.
“I think with how they're playing, they need someone a bit Haaland-esque who doesn't really touch the ball much and is just always in the six-yard box, because there's so many times the ball flashes across the face and no one's in there.
Troy Deeney said Man Utd should have signed Raheem Sterling from Chelsea (Image: Getty)
Invalid email
We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you've consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. Read our Privacy Policy
“I don't think that's his fault. I think they're asking him to do a job that he's probably not used to. He's probably learning. Immensely talented player, though.”
Deeney added: “I think the frustration Man Utd fans are seeing is that whenever another team changes, you see the style of play and the identity change very, very quickly. Under Erik Ten Hag, it's been: ‘When I get everybody fit, it'll be fine’. And then they put four or five players in, and it's like: ‘When they're all really, really fit, then they'll be fine’.
“Well, when's it coming? I don't think they've got enough goals in the team to compete in the top four or five.”
