Former Manchester United and Chelsea manager, Jose Mourinho, has singled out Scott McTominay for praise, following the Red Devils’ 1-0 defeat to Barcelona in the Champions League quarter-final on Wednesday night.
McTominay held his own against Barca’s midfielders, even though United hardly got the ball.
The first leg at Old Trafford, was eventually settled by Luke Shaw’s own goal in the first half. But Mourinho spoke glowingly about the 22-year-old.
“Barcelona was not Barcelona yesterday,” Mourinho told RT on Thursday night.
“I think United had one player that was responsible for that because I think Scott McTominay in midfield, he was like what I used to call – but when I use this expression it’s obviously in the total positive sense of the word. He was a mad dog.
“Afraid of nobody. Imposing his respect. Pressing really hard with a huge range of movement a huge area of pressing.
“Pressing higher and creating problems in Barcelona building up then really aggressive on the duels.”
However, speaking after the match, McTominay told BT Sport: “In the first 10 minutes we showed them far too much respect but after that we adpated really well and looked the better side. It was an entertaining night to watch on the TV.
“Barcelona are top class, it’s difficult to get the ball. It’s not as easy as going out to press like mayhem.
“We have to do more in front of goal, score more. It’s a big second leg to go. It’s only half time. We’re United and you can never write us off.”
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