Manchester United boss Marc Skinner has given his verdict on Grace Clinton’s deadline day exit, as well as offered his view on Jess Park’s arrival.
United and Manchester City do swap deal
United confirmed Park’s arrival from City on deadline day, with the midfielder joining the club as part of a deal that involved Clinton heading the other way.
Heading into the final few days of the summer transfer window, Clinton’s future was the subject of speculation, but Skinner moved to clear up the rumours, insisting that the player would stay.
However, it increasingly became apparent that Clinton was hellbent on departing Leigh Sports Village and joining City. United expressed an interest in Park, and the two clubs eventually struck a swap deal.
In addition to Park, United have also received a transfer fee for allowing Clinton to seal a move to their cross-town rivals.
In her farewell message, Clinton explained that she chose to leave United because her vision for the future and development did not align with the club’s.
Now, Skinner has opened up on the England international’s departure.
Skinner comments on Clinton’s transfer
Skinner told The Halfway Line, “I want to thank Grace. I think I’m being quite clear in that we as managers can have personal relationships with players and we can see things differently. But for us, I think we’re trying to learn from the past mistakes.”
“If people don’t want to be here, then we have to make sure we find the best solution for Manchester United. Grace has made her decision, that’s what she wants to do.”
“So for us, it’s disappointing I’m sure from the fans perspective, but we have to move forward to play the players that want to be 100% of Manchester United, and that wasn’t the case. So we move forward.”
Skinner stressed that United fans will adore Park, who he tipped to be a smashing success at the club.
“What I love most about Jess and I’ve told her this, is that when she picks up the ball, she makes things happen. She can score, she can create. It’s not a fault of Manchester City, but what I think we can get more out of her because I think she’ll be able to finish that product rather than have to maybe lend the pass a little bit more.”
“She’ll be able to dribble, drive, create more for us.”
He continued, “But, more importantly, I think when you speak to Jess, she’s got this wonderful, rebellious attitude towards – I just want to win. I want to be here, she’s 100%. I think our fans are falling in love with her. I have no doubt she’s incredible talent, and someone I’m looking forward to nurturing even more.”
Skinner expressed optimism that he will develop Park well and nurture her to become a superstar.
Feature image Ben Roberts 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!
