THE reason why Anthony Elanga has been in the Manchester United starting XI ahead of Alejandro Garnacho has been revealed.
The two youngsters have both been battling out for a spot in Erik ten Hag’s line-up in recent weeks with the Swede often getting the nod.
This comes despite Garnacho impressing in recent weeks scoring versus Real Sociedad and assisting two in the Carabao Cup win over Aston Villa.
Elanga, 20, started at Fulham but he was subbed off and Garnacho, 18, came on and netted a dramatic late winner.
Fans have been wanting to see the Argentine start more matches having only been in the XI for three games in all competitions this season while Elanga has started six.
Manchester Evening News have revealed why Garnacho is being limited to off the bench impacts saying that Ten Hag likes Elanga’s work rate and that he is trusted by the manager.
They write: “Elanga’s recent performance may not have had the same noticeable highs as Garnacho’s, but he has been a fairly reliable option for Ten Hag.
“Particularly in terms of his movement both on and off the ball.He started against Fulham for these reasons.
“In the absence of Diogo Dalot, Ten Hag wanted a reliable right winger who could help Tyrell Malacia with his defensive duties.
“The right flank was United’s weak point throughout the game, but it became even weaker after Elanga was replaced by Scott McTominay and Bruno Fernandes was repurposed there.”
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Fuham’s equaliser came down that side of the pitch highlighting they missed Elanga’s defensive help once he was taken off.
Ten Hag has previously said that Garnacho needs to improve his attitude, which he is doing.
The Dutchman said: “On the [pre-season] tour he didn’t have the best attitude that he should have had and that’s why he didn’t get his chances until now.
“He’s getting his chances because he’s training better, having a different attitude, and deserving his chances.”
With Garnacho’s visible ability and form alongside his improving attitude, it could result in him getting more opportunities to play from minute one.
But Elanga despite not scoring this season remains someone Ten Hag sees a long-term future with.
