Micah Richards has singled out Jadon Sancho for special praise following the winger’s string of strong performances in a Manchester United shirt recently.
Speaking on the BBC Monday Night Club, the former England defender lapped up Sancho’s recent form under Ralf Rangnick.
After failing to get out of first gear for the first few months of his United career, Sancho has stepped on the gas and is driving down the flanks with real authority.
The England international failed to find the back of the net in any of his first 14 matches before converting at Villarreal in the Champions League. In the past five fixtures, however, Rangnick can thank the 21-year-old for contributing four of his side’s nine goals.
Sancho provided a pair of assists in Sunday’s 4-2 victory at Leeds United, having previously scored against Southampton and Middlesbrough.
Sancho sparkling once more
Confidence seems to be flowing through the young man’s veins once more, which is a very encouraging sign for club and country.
“I just love the fact Sancho is now playing at the level we all thought we’d see from the moment he made his debut. It’s his decision-making for me that is brilliant,” rejoiced Richards.
“You (Mark Chapman) say his best position is on the right. I actually think his best position is on the left.
“I like the way he dribbles at people and comes in on his right foot – he can release it. And he has been Man United’s best player over the last couple of weeks.
“We just want to see more because he is a fantastic player. He’s not been able to show that because of the difficulties Man United have been having.”
Jadon just needed a new coach
Sancho has been made into something of a scapegoat for United’s issues this season. Expectations were sky-high when he arrived from Borussia Dortmund in the summer.
With a £73 million (Sky) price tag hanging around his neck, supporters demanded displays of similar magnitude.
For one reason or another, Sancho struggled to find his rhythm under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer who, in turn, was battling to bring the best out of a squad that was arguably above his pay grade.
Once Solskjaer stepped down, the dust seemed to settle for the former Dortmund star. He looks more assured of himself and his abilities, not to mention knowing his role within Rangnick’s system.
United and England fans will hope this run continues way beyond the conclusion of this campaign.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
