HITMAN AND ERR

Ruben no-striker policy goes horribly wrong

- JEREMY CROSS

RUBEN AMORIM performed an experiment which exploded in his face on another dismal day for the Manchester United manager at Old Trafford.

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

With Marcus Rashford heading to Aston Villa on loan, Amorim decided to leave Rasmus Hojlund and Joshua Zirkzee on the bench and ask defensive midfielder Kobbie Mainoo to lead United's attack.

Against a team which arrived at Old Trafford having conceded just four goals in their last seven games in all competitions.

Strangely 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.