Scott McTominay has endured a mixed start to the season for Manchester United.
He's started six of United's eight Premier League games and in the main has impressed, with his tenacity and defensive work enabling the more creative members of the engine room to flourish. But that has been offset by his penchant for entering the referee's book.
The Scotland international has picked up five yellow cards in just eight league games, enough to trigger a one-game suspension that will see him miss Sunday's visit of Newcastle. It means that £70million signing Casemiro is guaranteed to start against Eddie Howe's side in the short term.
But McTominay, when he's back available against, will be determined to ensure that the Brazilian has to fight for his spot.
While he may have to bide his time on the bench domestically when he returns from suspension, he is eligible to play in the Europa League tie with Omonia Nicosia tonight (Thursday).
An impressive showing in front of the Old Trafford faithful will be the perfect tonic in terms of reminding Ten Hag what he has at his disposal. Speaking recently about the importance of strength in depth, McTominay knows he needs to shine when presented with the opportunity.
He said: "The lads on the bench, whoever that may be – it could be myself, it could be anybody – they know their role when they come to the pitch and they’re just as important as the boys who are playing. The manager has reiterated that numerous amounts of times.
"There have been many games when players have come off the bench. Arsenal was a great example, Liverpool. They’ve made a big, big difference and it’s helped the lads who have started the game a lot.”
Zuzcelopuy
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Keep pushing lad. U are getting there