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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
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Alex Dakers

Ruben Amorim responds to Manchester United criticism after Arne Slot 'long ball' comments

Blocking out noise: Ruben Amorim - (Getty Images)

Ruben Amorim has dismissed criticism of his style of play at Manchester United, saying he doesn’t care about comments from Liverpool manager Arne Slot - or anyone else.

In the aftermath of last weekend’s Anfield showdown, in which United beat their fierce rivals 2-1, Slot commented that “it is always difficult to play against a team that defends in a low block and mainly plays the long ball” in a perceived critique of his opponent’s approach.

But Amorim, having led the Red Devils to a first victory at Liverpool’s ground since 2016, said discussion of the match was “not important” as it is “in the past”.

“Important is what [Brighton and Hove Albion manager] Fabian [Hurzeler] said, to try to understand what is going to happen [this weekend],” he continued, speaking as his squad prepare to welcome the Seagulls to Old Trafford on Saturday evening.

“I understand everything. I am really pleased that the team can play different games.”

Of the victory over Liverpool, which marked the first time United had won back-to-back Premier League games during his near-year-long tenure, Amorim added: “It was an important win, but I was the first one to say that we need to play better with the ball.

“So, I don’t care what Slot is saying, what people are saying about our team.

“I can evaluate my team and I am really clear that we should play better with the ball. We are going to try to do that in this game.”

Man United host Brighton this evening in the Premier League.

Just one point and league placing separates Amorim’s ninth-placed troops from their visitors, who are unbeaten in their last four outings but are yet to keep a clean sheet in the Premier League this season.

A third win in a row for the Red Devils meanwhile, would cement the team’s place in the top half of the table heading into November and strengthen hope around the club that the Liverpool win might serve as a turning point.

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