Diogo Dalot detailed how Manchester United must improve to reach the next level in an impressive post-match interview after their FA Cup quarter-final against Liverpool.
The Portuguese full-back, who has been one of United's standout performers in recent weeks, produced another solid performance for the Reds on Sunday as they came out 4-3 winners.
It was a dramatic ending to a game that will go down as an FA Cup classic but after the full-time whistle, Dalot acknowledged where his side must improve if they want to progress.
Advert
Speaking to Sony Sports Network, he said: "Overall, the first 30 minutes was unbelievable. I think we pressed them really high and it was really difficult for them to be in the game.
"Then we dropped a little bit and gave them more space between the lines. And this is the type of thing that, if we want to go to another level, then we have to fix."
Liverpool exploited the gaps between United's midfield and defence on numerous occasions throughout Sunday's quarter-final – and should have arguably put the game to bed earlier on.
Advert
Dalot's decision to speak out about how they need to improve certainly went down well with the United faithful.
One fan wrote: "Most refreshing United post match interview I’ve heard in a long time. At least now I know they know the biggest tactical issue of the whole season. But now it just makes me just wonder why they still do it."
A second said: "How is Dalot not unanimously loved within the fan base Technical, versatile, athletic, fit, reliable, professional, smart, ambitious and loves the club. What else do you want?"
Advert
A third commented: "This is something that will come with better profiles of defenders in the squad. Branthwaite and Diomande are two examples. They allow us to play more like how Ethan has described below. Sign players in that mould, and we will see much better results."
A fourth said: "Bold shout here… but future United captain," while a fifth added: "Brilliant interview. He speaks as well as he plays. I’ve heard some shouts for a future captain and I cannot disagree with them."
You can watch the interview in full below:
Manchester United will be heavy favourites when they come up against Championship side Coventry City in the FA Cup semi-final.
Advert
That game will take place on the weekend of April 20/21 at Wembley.
Topics: Diogo Dalot, Manchester United, Premier League, FA Cup, Liverpool