Manchester United have been slammed for signing Lisandro Martinez after the new signing struggled on his Premier League debut against Brighton.
According to former Sky Sports presenter Richard Keys, United were 'hopeless' during their 2-1 defeat against the Seagulls.
He wrote on his blog: “They were hopeless, nothing has changed since [Ralf] Rangnick picked his last team. Nothing. No – I’m sorry.”
Keys then questioned the club's decision to sign Martinez, who at 5’9” is one of the shortest centre backs in the Premier League.
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He added: “They’ve got a 5’8” centre back that’s likely to have the a**e ripped out of him most weeks now that proper No9’s are back in fashion.
“Who’s idea was that for goodness sake? Ten Hag has talked a good game since his appointment. He delivered nothing on Sunday.”
A pretty damning verdict after yet another disappointing start to a league campaign. United fans were optimistic going into the match on Sunday after their team had a largely positive pre season.
However, Graham Potter’s side gave Erik ten Hag and his men a cruel reality check, United were no match for a Brighton side packed full of energy as Pascal Gross scored twice in 10 first half minutes to put his side 2-0 up at the break.
Things improved in the second half after the introduction of want away striker Cristiano Ronaldo but even the great man couldn’t inspire his side into a famous come back.
Potter’s side showed great resilience as they held on for a famous 2-1 victory, their first ever win at Old Trafford.
After the game, Ten Hag expressed his disappointment in the result.
He told Sky Sports: "It is definitely a set back, a real disappointment, but we have to deal with it.
“I knew from the start that it wouldn't be easy, it's a process and takes time, but we don't have time. We have to win games and we should have done better.”
United are still active in the transfer window as Ten Hag is desperate to add to his ranks.
On Monday afternoon, it was reported that a deal has been agreed with Juventus to bring French midfielder Adrien Rabiot to Old Trafford.
In addition to Rabiot, United are still firmly interested in Barcelona midfielder Frenkie de Jong, but despite a deal being agreed between the clubs, the main issue now is De Jong himself.
The 25-year-old is reluctant to leave Barcelona as he is settled in the city and enjoys playing for the club. Furthermore, Barcelona are yet to pay deferred wage worth £14 million to De Jong.
Time is ticking, United will need to move fast if they are to sign their top targets this summer.
This weekend, the Red Devils will travel to the Brentford Community Stadium as they search for their first win of the season.
Topics: Manchester United, Erik Ten Hag, Lisandro Martinez, Premier League
Marcus Chan