Diogo Dalot’s precise cross headed by Scott McTominay, which helped Manchester United defeat Aston Villa, has been described as a “David Beckham cross”.
High praise for the Portuguese full-back came from Paul Merson, who was watching from the Sky Sports studio at Villa Park.
In the 86th minute, Kobbie Mainoo fought off the attention of two Villa players in the right corner to launch the ball towards Dalot.
The ball was placed attractively for Dalot and he unleashed a stunning cross for the first time with speed, right on McTominay’s head to nod and seal a 2-1 win in what is a huge boost for the top four hopes of the United.
“That’s a David Beckham cross,” Merson said. “That’s a David Beckham cross… you just have to get to the end.”
Diogo Dalot delivered the crucial cross to help lead Manchester United to victory on Sunday, and his delivery was compared to David Beckham (right) when he was at his peak at United.
Dalot’s whipped ball gave way to Scott McTominay to head into the back of the net.
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At his peak, Beckham was considered one of the best wingers of his generation and during his time at United much of the attacking focus came from balls delivered from outside.
Therefore, comparisons with Beckham, who went on to play for teams such as Real Madrid, AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, should not be dismissed lightly.
Dalot has received a lot of criticism this season, but this was a positive display after a few positive weeks.
Erik ten Hag has never doubted the qualities of his right back.
“Everyone gets criticism, but he is a fantastic player who is developing very well,” the Dutchman told Match of Day 2.
“He can play in many positions and is improving in the centers.” He can score and his defense is getting better, so I’m really happy with him.”
United manager Erik ten Hag (centre) praised the Portuguese right-back after
Villa looked to target United’s right side, using Jacob Ramsey to give Dalot a headache.
While Villa had some joy, Dalot did well to try to cancel out, before making the decisive contribution at the other end.
He finished the match at Villa Park with a passing accuracy of 73 percent, while completing 19/26 passes, two of which were considered “key passes.”
“To be fair, it was an incredible cross, delivered with a lot of pace,” McTominay said of Dalot’s assist.
‘I just needed it to hit my head and hit the target. “Full credit to the boys, we created a lot of good opportunities that can go unnoticed.”
The win was key for United as it means they have now reduced the gap on fifth-placed Aston Villa to just five points, with a fourth successive win giving them all the momentum in the race for the top four.