Erik ten Hag started Omari Forson in goal for the first time in Manchester United’s Premier League match against Fulham today. After extra time, Alex Iwobi scored the game’s winning goal for the Red Devils, who lost 2-1 overall.
Upon revealing their starting lineup, Manchester United surprised a few people. Omari Forson was selected by Erik ten Hag to start yesterday’s match against Fulham at Old Trafford ahead of Amad Diallo and Antony on the right flank.
Omari Forson was added to the first team roster for the first time after travelling to America for Manchester United’s preseason last summer.
Omari Forson’s time with the senior team has limited his performances with the Under-21s, despite some good displays for the team. When the 19-year-old came off the bench to replace Marcus Rashford in the FA Cup match against Wigan Athletic at the DW Stadium, he made his senior team debut.
A product of Manchester United’s academy has also started games against Wolves and Newport County off the bench. His first chance to influence Manchester United’s first team from the outset came against Fulham.
Omari Forson’s first start was aided by an injury:
Rasmus Højlund reportedly suffered an injury before to the Fulham match. Erik ten Hag was forced to reconsider his starting lineup and game plan for the Old Trafford match due to the injury.
Garnacho took over on his preferred left side after Marcus Rashford was moved from the left wing to a more central role. which made room for Omari Forson to take the right flank starting position.
When speaking with MUTV, Erik Ten Hag was questioned regarding the cause of Omari Forson’s starting:
“Because he deserves the position,” he stated. He has been working really hard and making development over the previous six months, and he is now functioning exceptionally well.
Additionally, he had an impact when he replaced Wolves and Newport, setting up Kobbie Mainoo’s goal with a nice run-behind. We anticipate that from him. He had to take his chance because he has proven himself reliable and now he has the opportunity.
The attackers can move positions, but they must remain at specific spots. It’s all about where they stand during their defensive transition; there can’t be any confusion about who has to play where.
However, he will be flexible, and occasionally we will act erratically. These players seek to locate space, run skills, but also link skills together. They have the talents and dynamics.
“It’s crucial that we have ties there, but if we do, they could pose a threat and interact with one another.”
