Int’l manager admits being ‘doubtful’ over Utd star – but player’s recent performances have ‘convinced’ him

Stretty News

·11. März 2025

Int’l manager admits being ‘doubtful’ over Utd star – but player’s recent performances have ‘convinced’ him

One national team manager has brazenly voiced his doubts over calling up one Manchester United star.

Usually for all football fans, the international breaks are viewed as a persistent hinderance throughout the season – unless their club is going through a rough patch, in which case it provides some respite and a chance for the coach to have a breather.

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Indeed, that’s likely to be the case for Ruben Amorim this time around. Erik ten Hag’s successor has endured nothing short of a turbulent tenure since he took the reins last November, and he – more than anyone – will benefit from a fortnight to recuperate and look ahead to the final months of the campaign.

He will, however, have to continue training without a host of his integral starters, with the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Diogo Dalot and Noussair Mazraoui all key figures for their nations.

Winter recruit Patrick Dorgu has been called up to feature for Denmark in their Nations League quarter-final clashes against Portugal. In doing so, the full-back has the chance to play alongside club teammates Rasmus Hojlund and Christian Eriksen for the first time since his move to Old Trafford.

Dorgu wasn’t a shoo-in to receive a call-up, though. According to Brian Riemer, he harboured concerns over the youngster’s performances at Lecce and was mulling over leaving him out this month.

Denmark coach makes brazen Dorgu admission

Dorgu has made five United appearances thus far. (Photo by Jan Kruger/Getty Images)

“He has really convinced me,” Riemer told Danish outlet Tipsbladet after his selection was announced.

“I dare to tell you now that I was a little doubtful in Lecce, because when I watched the games, he was more of a winger than a back, and his defensive skills were… debatable. But I have seen him many times now, and I am actually quite impressed with what he has achieved defensively.

“Defensively, my doubts were there, and he has convinced me there. He has done it strongly. There are still small things that can be done better, but even in the best league in the world, he has delivered.

“I think he has proven that for Manchester United. I know that they play with a wingback, but many times he has ended up as a back, and that is why I have had him under the microscope and looked at how he defends. The situations I have analysed have convinced me that he can do both.”