Man United fans stunned by what Kobbie Mainoo did in new role v Crystal Palace
Man United fans were stunned by the performance of Kobbie Mainoo in a new role as a centre-forward during their clash with Crystal Palace.
Ruben Amorim’s side fell to a disappointing 2-0 defeat after two second-half goals from Jean-Philippe Mateta piled on the misery.
However, it was the manager’s latest experiment with his starting lineup which had large sections of the home support asking questions.
Both Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee were left on the bench, as Mainoo replaced them through the middle with Amad and Alejandro Garnacho either side of him.
The 19-year-old is usually named as part of the midfield duo, but played in a makeshift role at Old Trafford to mixed reviews.
Many fans were impressed with his display, taking into account his lack of experience in the role, after he caused issues for the Palace defence early in the game.
However, the trial was ditched after 70 minutes as Amorim opted to bring both of his natural strikers off the bench when chasing the game with Palace leading.
Man United fans split on Ruben Amorim after Kobbie Mainoo experiment
Mainoo had been subject to plenty of speculation in January about a potential move, but looks set to remain at Old Trafford for the foreseeable future.
However, a natural striker who is good enough to play in Amorim’s system remains an issue for them and may not be addressed before the transfer deadline due to financial issues.
After the midfielder was trialled in his new role, supporters took to social media in response as they labelled him “an extraordinary talent”.
However, others insisted Amorim was “insane” after the experiment ultimately failed.
In other news, fans fear Lisandro Martinez is out for “months” in a “heartbreaking” blow.
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