Tyrell Malacia warns Luke Shaw that he is on a mission to take his Man Utd left-back spot – and stats back up Dutchman
TYRELL MALACIA has warned Luke Shaw that he is on a mission to take his first-team place.
The 22-year-old capture from Feyenoord for an initial £12.9million made his Manchester United debut in Bangkok in the second half of their 4-0 win over Liverpool.
Afterwards he was positive about his potential to make the left-back position at Old Trafford his own.
Although he is in a fight with Shaw, Alex Telles and Brandon Williams for the spot.
Malacia said: “Of course it’s everybody’s aim. You always want to play, so you have to work hard for it.
“There are some good left-backs here, Telles, Brandon, Luke, me, so you have to work hard and prove yourself in training and in the end the coach will make a decision.”
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Asked if he is confident he can swing the opinion of new manager Erik ten Hag, he said: “Of course, always.”
Ten Hag made defender Malacia his first signing because of his front-foot philosophy.
Malacia said: “I like to attack, I think that’s one of the reasons why he brought me here, so I have to prove to everyone why I’m here.
“I wanted this all my life, I worked hard for it, so I have to work harder now.”
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The Dutch star was delighted with his debut — even if it was a friendly.
He said: “You always want to win games, especially against Liverpool, but in the end these games are to get fit, so it’s another plus.
“I’m happy that I made my debut and that we got the win. I already feel like I’m home, they made me feel like I’m home already.”
Former United striker, now Feyenoord technical coach, Robin van Persie was happy to encourage Malacia to make the move.
He said: “Yeah I spoke with him about United and his time in the Premier League — some great memories, good stories, so it’s always positive.”