Building from the back has become a fundamental tactic in the modern game.
Erik ten Hag has reiterated how important it is that the centre-backs can spark attacks to the right and left, comfortably feeding the ball through the lines.
This is nothing particularly new to hear from a Manchester United manager as his fellow Dutchman Louis van Gaal had strong views on the subject, preferring a right-footer and left-footer as a partnership in the middle. Marcos Rojo or Daley Blind would often fill the role on the left, and Academy product Tyler Blackett made 11 appearances there.
It is a reason why the continued absence of both Lisandro Martinez and Luke Shaw has been such a blow to the way the team operates, and how Ten Hag likes to play.
Erik has stressed Licha’s qualities with his left foot were instrumental in targeting his former Ajax man, while Shaw will hopefully return at Everton on Sunday, and offers the option of performing in the middle or his traditional full-back slot.
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