Manchester United fans felt that one of Sir Alex Ferguson’s former players would be better suited for Ruben Amorim’s tactical system as a wing-back than Denis Irwin.
Denis Irwin is considered one of the best left-backs in Premier League history and is arguably one of the most overlooked Manchester United legends in modern football.
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The 60-year-old Irishman excelled both in the attack and defence for United, with club legend Irwin more than capable of operating on both flanks as a full-back.
Irwin was also proficient with set-pieces and the ex-Republic of Ireland international could effortlessly step up for penalties and free-kicks when he was needed.
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During his run under Sir Alex Ferguson, former United left-back Irwin lifted seven Premier League titles, a Champions League trophy, two FA Cups and a League Cup.
Photo By Stephen McCarthy/Sportsfile via Getty ImagesDenis Irwin is in the 10-man shortlist for Man Utd fans to pick the best wing-back for Ruben Amorim
Manchester United have shifted to the use of wing-backs after Ruben Amorim arrived at Old Trafford and replaced Erik ten Hag as the club’s manager.
Ruben Amorim’s tactical system for United has seen the Red Devils utilising two No 10s instead of wingers and switching to a three-man backline for their set-up.
During the November international break, Manchester United’s official website asked fans to pick out one player from the past who could operate in a wing-back role.
The Red Devils singled out 10 players and included several high-profile names from Sir Alex Ferguson’s legendary reign, including Denis Irwin and Ryan Giggs.
Irwin finished fourth in the United poll and the Red Devils legend secured 13 per cent of the vote from supporters who took part in the process.
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Man Utd fans name the perfect wing-back choice after Denis Irwin falls short of the top three
Ryan Giggs, who is widely considered one of the best Premier League players of all time, finished ahead of Irwin and secured third place with 17 per cent of the vote.
United fans had ex-France international Patrice Evra emerge in second place in the 10-man shortlist, with the ex-Ferguson signing picking up 20 per cent of the vote.
Finishing ahead of third-place Giggs and second-place Patrice Evra was none other than Antonio Valencia, who walked away with the lion’s share of the votes.
Antonio Valencia received 32 per cent of the vote, while the likes of Ashley Young and Anthony Elanga secured seven per cent and four per cent respectively.