Gamble backfires badly for Amorim

MATETA AT THE DOUBLE AS MAINOO TRIAL FAILS

- Jeremy Cross

RUBEN AMORIM performed an experiment that exploded in his face on another dismal day for the Manchester United head coach.

In a 'strike a light' moment for Amorim, United looked like what they are after being beaten by Crystal Palace. That is a striker light - at least.

With Marcus Rashford heading to Aston Villa on loan, he opted to put Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee on the bench and ask defensive midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to lead the attack.

Ironically enough it was a genuine centre-forward who won the game.

And sadly for Amorim that man belonged to Palace in the shape of Jean-Philippe Mateta.

Amorim's gamble taught him two things that Mainoo is no striker and that United need a proper one before the transfer window closes tonight.

Just four top-flight teams have scored fewer league goals than the Red M Devils this season.