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Paul Merson makes shock claim about Manchester United star Henrikh Mkhitaryan
HENRIKH MKHITARYAN is Manchester United's "best player", according to Paul Merson.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan - 5 things you need to know
Mkhitaryan arrived at Manchester United with a huge reputation in the summer after a stunning season with Borussia Dortmund.
The Armenia international scored 23 goals and provided 32 assists in all competitions last term but has so far struggled at Old Trafford.
He has started just one Premier League game this term and The Sun claim Jose Mourinho is considering getting rid of the winger in January.
Henrikh Mkhitaryan is Manchester United's best player, says Paul Merson
Henrikh Mkhitaryan has started just one Premier League game this season
However, former Arsenal forward Merson thinks that would be a foolish decision and has urged Mourinho to start playing him more.
And the Sky Sports pundit made the bold claim that Mkhitaryan is United's "best player" despite the likes of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, Wayne Rooney and Paul Pogba being in the side.
“I think he [Mourinho] needs to get Henrikh Mkhitaryan fit and in the team," Merson told Sky Sports.
"He's got the X Factor and they need to get him playing.
“It's a really strange one. Mourinho said he needs match fitness, so why didn't he give him 30 minutes against Fenerbahce?
"He is their best player!"
Henrikh Mkhitaryan could start against Manchester City in the EFL Cup tonight
Mourinho explained last week Mkhitaryan's absence was because he was lacking what he called "match intensity".
But the 27-year-old has been spotted at the Lowry Hotel with the United squad ahead of tonight's EFL Cup tie with Manchester City (8pm) meaning he could play.
Mkhitaryan has made five appearances in all competitions for the Red Devils this season but is yet to score.
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