Roy Keane Says Ashley Young Isn't a Manchester United Player After CSKA Dive
Former Manchester United captain Roy Keane has slammed Ashley Young for diving against CSKA Moscow on Tuesday, questioning whether the England international has the credentials to represent the Red Devils.
The outspoken Irishman had strong words for the player, telling ITV (h/t Elliott Bretland of the MailOnline): "If Ashley Young is a Man United player, I'm a Chinaman. He is an absolute disgrace."
Keane lambasted Young for taking a fall in the box in the second half as United chased the win, adding:
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"The senior players need to get hold of him. That shouldn't be accepted at Manchester United.
That's not leaving your leg in. That's different. It's the somersault he does, it's an absolute disgrace.
Maybe once or twice can be seen as a mistake. But he's done it nine or 10 times and he's done it at his previous clubs.
"
United went on to edge out the Russians in a 1-0 win at Old Trafford, as Wayne Rooney grabbed a headed goal in the closing stages.
Young featured in an uncommon right-back role, having played for manager Louis van Gaal primarily on the left during the Dutchman's tenure.
The winger, 30, initiated contact with his opponent as he ran through on the right, throwing himself in the air in an attempt to win a penalty.
Paul Scholes was also critical of Young's actions in the box, telling BT Sport (h/t Bretland):
"Ashley needs to stop doing this. He knows that himself, but it's just a habit and he can't get rid of it.
It's so obvious and he just needs to get this out of his game. It is embarrassing and Ashley knows it.
He's a really good player and he doesn't need to resort to those tactics, but I just think it's ingrained in him.
"
Television presenter Gary Lineker also added his opinion to the debate surrounding Young's antics, condemning his actions:
Young has a reputation for trying to win penalties, and his attempts at simulation have become the most famous part of his game.
However, it is worth noting Rooney also took a tumble just moments before Young, but the striker's fall has received much less criticism.
Previously, Ander Herrera has also hit the deck in an unconvincing fashion, and both could be factors in influencing Young's actions.
The former Aston Villa player has resurrected his career under Van Gaal, and has become one of United's most versatile players in the past 12 months, featuring 10 times in the Premier League and Europe this season, according to WhoScored.com.
Young has valiantly covered in defence during injury crises at Old Trafford and offers adequate and able cover at full-back.
However, his reputation for diving will not evaporate if he continues to simulate to win fouls, but it appears it is not a factor he is willing to stamp out of his game.
