Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has revealed his stance on whether he could start Scott McTominay as a striker in the future.
The 26-year-old was in fine form for Scotland over the international break, firing in braces in wins against Cyprus and Spain in Euro 2024 qualifying.
McTominay rediscovering his scoring touch saw United fans hark back to the days where he played further forward, rising through the club’s academy a a regular contributor of goals.
Speaking after his memorable double against Spain, McTominay said: “As a kid, I was an attacking midfielder and then I stretched a little bit, I got a little too big for that – the little ones in between the lines – but then I was more of a sitting midfield player. But I like to do both; I like to get in the box and obviously help my teammates defend as well.”
Ahead of United’s return to Premier League action on Sunday against top-four rivals Newcastle, Ten Hag was asked at a press conference whether McTominay could be utilised further forward for the Red Devils.
“Scott can play in many roles, it’s clear he has scoring capabilities for Scotland but also this season for us he’s a really good finisher,” Ten Hag said.
“I see him as a midfielder so I think I’m happy with what Wout [Weghorst] is doing. Because when Wout is in the team, the team is performing better.”
Scott McTominay’s record as a forward
McTominay broke into the United first team under Jose Mourinho as an attacking midfielder and has not played as a forward since his youth days.
He played 16 Premier League 2 games up top in the 2016/17 season – his last before becoming a full-time member of United’s senior setup – but only scored three goals.
Nevertheless, a quick look at compilations on YouTube will show that McTominay was a gifted finisher in his youth. He has, however, only ever scored 18 goals in 202 senior appearances for the Red Devils.
