Manchester United: 5 Outfield Premier League Players of the Season
4. Daley Blind
Blind has been one of the most underrated signings for Van Gaal, but he was superb this campaign. Tied for the lead in appearances for the club at 35, the Dutch international offered his versatility to the oft injured squad. When Phil Jones went down early in the season with an injury, Blind cemented his place in the heart of the defence with consistently excellent displays.
Though he has never been seen as a long term defensive option, for the most part the 26-year-old was brilliant in the role. As the team’s tactics required, Blind served as the ball-playing center back. He could pick out a target beyond the opposition’s defence or stride forward and open space for the wide players.
More from Manchester United News
- Aaron Wan Bissaka out for ‘several weeks’ with injury
- Sofyan Amrabat set to miss game against Brighton
- Preview: Manchester United vs Brighton – What you need to know
- Jadon Sancho set to train away from first team squad
- Mike Phelan blasts Manchester United teammates over Ronaldo exit
Even considering his smaller stature and slower pace compared to the best strikers in the Premier League, the former Ajax man held his own. He contributed to clean sheets against Manchester City and Everton, both featuring superb strikers in Sergio Aguero and Romelu Lukaku.
Similar to Mata, the Dutchman has slim hopes of surviving Mourinho’s appointment. It’s unlikely that the manager would hold Blind in as a high regards as Van Gaal does. Unlike Mata, however, he would probably stay in the team is squad depth, given his versatility.
Next: 3. Wayne Rooney