At this point, it’s safe to say Scott McTominay is United’s most underrated player and has been for a few years. The Scottland international is one of the most passionate players in the United squad, as he always leaves everything on the pitch, even when he’s not the team’s most technically gifted player.
His goalscoring run in the Premier League continued yesterday in a tightly contested game against Aston Villa, which earned him some praise from manager Erik Ten Hag as well as the fans, who pointed out his willingness to help the team.
Erik Ten Hag lauds Scott McTominay
Scott McTominay, who was almost shipped off to Bayern Munich last summer, was once again the hero in United’s impressive win over the incredible Aston Villa, who have performed above expectations this season. The former academy player fired home the team’s second goal and winner by getting on the end of Diogo Dalot’s cross to put United in a good position, who are now five points behind Villa.
His heroics earned him Erik Ten Hag’s praise, who pointed out how important the Scot has been to the team whenever called upon. “You have to credit a player like Scott McTominay, an example for many players today,” the Manchester United manager said.
“There are not many players anymore who are ready for every minute they can be on the pitch. He’s always ready to come on and make a difference,” the Dutchman added. The goal against Aston Villa was McTominay’s seventh Premier League goal this season, making him United’s top scorer in the competition.
Scott McTominay’s league goals have helped United win important games this season, with the central midfielder popping goals against Brentford (2), Sheffield United (1), Chelsea (2), Wolves (1), and now Aston Villa (1). Although he hasn’t been starting as many games since the start of 2024, his importance was once again highlighted with his thumping header to help United secure all three points yesterday.
Scott McTominay has been rumored to be in line to get a new contract proposal at Old Trafford, and his performances this season may as well be a big justification for that move.
Can Manchester United finish in Top-4?
United’s win over Aston Villa ensured they continued their 2024 run without losing. Erik Ten Hag’s men have won three of their last five Premier League games, drawing one and losing one, with that loss coming against Nottingham Forest at the end of 2023. So far this year in the league, United have only drawn with Tottenham Hotspur, beating the likes of Wolves, West Ham, and most recently Aston Villa.
The win over Aston Villa took the club to fifth on the table, five points behind Unai Emery’s men and five points above sixth-placed Newcastle United. Anyone familiar with the unpredictable nature of the Premier League will know that United can’t be written off at this point as far as making the top four is concerned.
Also, United’s next games for February are against Luton Town and Fulham, which means they could manage all six points against these teams to put more pressure on Aston Villa, who, unlike United, have big games on their calendar for the next few weeks.
