Amad Diallo scored a stunning late hat-trick as Manchester United turned what seemed certain to be an embarrassing loss into a thrilling win over Southampton at Old Trafford.
United looked like they were heading for a fourth consecutive Premier League home defeat as they struggled to break down Southampton, who took the lead in the 43rd minute of proceedings after Manuel Ugarte guided the ball into the back of his own net.
However, Amad, who signed a new long-term contract just a week ago, came in clutch in the dying embers of the match to secure all three points for the hosts.
The Ivorian was the hero of the hour as he equalised with just eight minutes remaining before going on to strike twice more to ensure the Saints were well and truly sunk.
After the match, Amorim spoke to TNT Sports [via BBC] and remarked, ” In the end it is good. A very difficult game, a game of two halves.”
“They did a very good job Southampton. Creating space in-between the lines. Number 20 [Kamaldeen Sulemana] with a lot of space. We had a lot of difficulty to stop that player.”
“When they lose their physicality, we find the space to use. The feeling is we have so much to do – the team is really tired.”
“It was a win, it was good – let’s continue.”
Amorim lauded Amad for his contributions, indicating that he was good throughout the match and not just in the late stages.
“Even in the first half, every time Amad gets the ball he can push the ball.”
“He pushes the other team into the final third – that is really important. We didn’t have a good game, but at this moment, winning is the most important thing.”
Amorim refuted suggestions that his players were not enthusiastic enough about the game, following their FA Cup triumph over Arsenal last weekend.
“It seems like a lack of enthusiasm. Ugarte is late and Mainoo is late, Bruno Fernandes going outside when the ball is inside.”
“One transition and Yoro cannot catch the guy – small things push the team behind, and then we get nervous.”
“Today was not a lack of enthusiasm, it was a lack of control in the game.”
On whether the current crop of players are suited to his system, Amorim replied, “They are not suited to playing like that. With the ball, you saw, we had some patterns.” This damning admission from the Portuguese coach may be slightly concerning to a section of supporters.
Up next for United is Brighton and Hove Albion on Sunday.
Featured image by Carl Recine via Getty Images
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Derick Kinoti
Derick Kinoti is a football writer at The Peoples Person who has covered Manchester United and the game extensively for many years. He is a keen analyst with expertise in SEO and journalism standards. Derick is convinced Wayne Rooney is the true GOAT and won’t hear otherwise!
