Ralf Rangnick believes Diogo Dalot is one of Manchester United’s best offensive options at full-back, but feels there is still room for improvement.
The Portuguese defender has enjoyed a run of games in the side in the absence of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, who has been out injured since the start of January.
Dalot has impressed as he’s deputised at right-back, with United unbeaten since he came into the side for the FA Cup clash with Aston Villa.
And his display led – perhaps somewhat controversially – to him being named the man of the match by commentator Martin Keown during the midweek win over Brentford.
With Wan-Bissaka still out of the side, Dalot looks set to continue, and given his team-mate’s lack of form this season, he could well now find himself in possession of the regular starting berth at right-back.
And Rangnick has noticed a difference in the 22-year-old in recent weeks, having seen him grow into his role more.
“If players get game-time, it will raise their level of confidence,” Rangnick told MUTV.
“I think, before until two or three months ago, he hasn’t had that much game-time because, on most occasions, Aaron was playing in that position. Right now, he’s getting a lot of game-time and we all know of all those offensive tools he has.
“He’s offensively one of the best full-backs we could have. He still has space for improvement in his defensive actions, one-on-one duels, anticipating and closing the gaps between himself and his team-mates.
“There is still space for improvement but he’s still a player who can develop and learn. So far, in the last couple of games, he did well and I was happy with his performances.”
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