Rio Ferdinand has hailed the ‘nonchalance’ of a Manchester United star who made his return from injury in the Europa League semi-final win against Athletic Bilbao.
Ruben Amorim’s side secured an all-important 3-0 win against the Basque side in what was a febrile atmosphere at San Mames.
The Portuguese manager will be delighted to take such a healthy advantage to Old Trafford against a side who boast the best defence in LaLiga this season.
However, the home side made their task more difficult when they were reduced to 10 men on 35 minutes, shortly after Casemiro had opened the scoring for the visitors.
Dani Vivian was sent off for a foul on Rasmus Hojlund inside the penalty area, with the spot-kick duly converted by Bruno Fernandes.
Speaking on TNT Sports, Ferdinand singled out one returning player for praise following a lengthy injury lay-off.
Rio Ferdinand praised the ‘nonchalance’ of a returning Manchester United star against Athletic Bilbao on Thursday night
Ruben Amorim’s side secured a vital 3-0 win in the Basque Country to keep their hopes of Champions League football alive
Noting the return of Amad Diallo, he said: ‘I’ve missed him you know. I’ve missed Amad. His nonchalance sometimes.
‘He wants the ball under pressure, plays with a bit of risk.’
The Red Devils had been without Diallo since he suffered an ankle injury in February.
It was initially feared that the problem would rule the 22-year-old out for the rest of the season.
However, he was introduced as a replacement for Patrick Dorgu with six minutes remaining on Thursday night.
It remains to be seen whether or not Diallo will start in the return leg at Old Trafford next week.
But United have boosted their chances of salvaging something from their miserable season lie in the Europa League, which could also grant qualification for the Champions League and a much-needed cash injection.
The Red Devils earned a late draw against ten-man Bournemouth on Sunday which saw them inch closer to 40 points.
The lacklustre tally represents the club’s lowest at this stage of a Premier League season in their history.
