‘Man United cause disbelief over Antonee Robinson signing from Fulham’
Antonee Robinson is “perfect” for Man United and Ruben Amorim’s style of football amid major surprise over his situation this summer.
The Portuguese manager is sticking doggedly with the 3-4-2-1 system that earned him so much success with Sporting CP, despite the Red Devils’ struggles to acclimate to the tactical set-up last season.
Part of the issue lies in the wing-back areas. The 20-time champions of England have very rarely used a three or five-at-the-back set-up in their history, and as such, their wide defenders are more suited to a more classical four-back system.
Man United attempted to remedy that by signing Patrick Dorgu and Diego Leon, but the pair are inexperienced at the highest level of European football. Meanwhile, Luke Shaw’s injury problems make it difficult for Amorim to rely on the England international, despite his quality.
Robinson was Fulham’s best player in the first half of last season, providing 10 assists for the Whites.
A niggling injury that required surgery curtailed the USA international’s involvement and impact at the tail end of the campaign, but the 28-year-old is still regarded as one of the Premier League‘s best fullbacks.
Robinson perfect for Man United set-up
Speaking on talkSPORT, former Chelsea striker Tony Cascarino explained why he was in disbelief that United had not made a move for Robinson.
He said (26 July): “Do you know one signing I can’t believe they have not done?
“Because I would have thought he was perfect for the way that Amorim [sets up]? Antonee Robinson.
“Left-back, left-winger, can’t believe they didn’t do that one. Or even attempted it, they might have done.
“I think that area, you know Luke Shaw has had so many injuries, are you hopeful that he gets a full season in, or a number of games?
“I can’t believe no one’s gone in [for him]. I think he’s certainly one I would look at for Manchester United. I think he’s them all over.”
Antonee Robinson perfect for Man United
Football Insider Verdict
Few players in the modern era encapsulate United’s style as much as Robinson does.
The USA international is a classical high-flying fullback with a seemingly limitless store of energy that often allows him to get the better of his opponents as a match reaches its late stages.
However, these aspects of his game have been there for his entire career. It is only in recent years that Robinson has refined his end product.
But with pinpoint crossing added to his repertoire, it is surprising that no teams have moved for the Fulham star this summer.
As Cascarino points out, Robinson seems to embody exactly what Amorim wants from his wingbacks.
Whilst the 28-year-old lacks experience in a five-back, he spent much of last season playing as a pseudo left-winger for Fulham, making it an easy transition for the US international to make, should United decide to move for the defender.