‘I don’t care who gets fit’: Ferdinand says ‘top-drawer’ Man Utd whiz simply has to start from now on

Rio Ferdinand has once again singled out Leny Yoro for praise following his stalwart shift on Sunday.

The 20-year-old retained his place for Manchester United’s trip to face Leeds United, which ended with the spoils being shared following a 1-1 draw.

How did Yoro fare vs Leeds?

Even amidst a disappointing result and the fact he was playing out of position at right-back, Yoro was a standout performer for United.

He played the full 90 minutes at Elland Road, and recorded 19 accurate passes, eight clearances, five headed clearances, two interceptions, one recovery and one tackle, as per FotMob.

The Frenchman won two ground duels, one aerial duel and two fouls. He also did his bit in attack by registering six line-breaking passes and four final-third passes.

Injuries in the backline have meant that Yoro is now in a place to stake his claim in such high-stakes fixtures, and he’s certainly taking his opportunities with both hands.

However, Ferdinand is keen for the youngster to retain his place in the starting XI even when his senior counterparts return to the fold.

What Ferdinand had to say about Yoro

Ferdinand said on his podcast at full-time: “Leny Yoro, especially in the first half [when] defending the back post, was top-drawer. He looks like he’s growing in confidence. I think Yoro just needs a run in the team now.

“I don’t know what position he’ll make his own first, but he’ll go, ‘I have to be in this team’.

“I think if he just continues playing in the way that he is, and just continues to get games… I don’t care who gets back fit now, I think Leny Yoro just needs to stay in the team, prove his worth, prove his value to this team, because I think every week he’s getting stronger now.

“I thought in Madrid, he looked solid. The game before that, for France, he was outstanding at centre-back under [Zinedine] Zidane. He’s come back with a newfound confidence. I think that’s good for Man United.”