English right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka has insisted that he is happy at Old Trafford amid concerns that he may leave the club this summer.
The former Crystal Palace defender only saw action for four minutes before the World Cup break, but Diogo Dalot’s injury provided him with an opportunity to showcase his talents.
Wan-Bissaka is not well known for his attacking skills, and Ten Hag wants his full-backs to play a significant role in the attack. The Dutchman has recently helped Wan-Bissaka in improving his attacking game-play.
While speaking to The Telegraph, the 25-year-old expressed concern over his playing time in the first half of the season, but the manager has taught him how to bring out the best in him in the next half of the season.
“It has been my intention to stay, but during that period (out of the team) my aim was just to play, everyone loves playing and it makes me happy. During that time I would do anything to play again.”
“I am happy here, I have been happy since I joined and that is what I worked for and what I continue to work for. I think it’s getting involved more in the higher part of the pitch, which is what the manager wants.
“He wants the full-back and winger to be on opposite lines, so if one is outside, the other is inside. It gives more options for other players. It creates space for other areas of the pitch.”
Another illustration of his defensive prowess was the last-ditch scoop tackle he made on Wilfried Zaha in the Premier League this year. Full-backs are required to attack as well as defend in today’s modern game.
Wan-Bissaka has made notable progress in this area over the past four months. He frequently occupies the middle of the field, allowing Antony to attack the flank.
The defender, who is valued at €22 million, has frequently been in and near the opponent’s box to provide his teammates with more passing options.
But even after his progress, United may bring in a right-back who is more aggressive in the forthcoming transfer window. Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is a possible candidate as the Red Devils have already expressed interest in signing him.
However, Wan-Bissaka still has time to persuade Ten Hag that he is the best candidate in order to secure the right-back position at the club.
If the fullback can keep his United career alive, it will depend on how the team performs in the remaining games of the current season.
