Tyrell Malacia reveals which Man Utd legend he based his game on

Tyrell Malacia has identified former Manchester United star Patrice Evra as the player tried to emulate in terms of style as a youngster.

The 23-year-old has impressed on the left-side of a new-look defence under Erik ten Hag since joining the Red Devils in a £15m deal from Feyenoord in July. If Man Utd fans are seeing something familiar in Malacia’s game, though, there is a logical reason for that.

"I always looked towards players with the same style as me, so obviously it was [Patrice] Evra for me,” Malacia told Sky Sports. “I really loved to watch him."

There are signs that Ten Hag’s much-needed changes at Old Trafford are starting to take hold, with Man Utd starting to string together some improved performances and results.

However, Malacia says he always expected Ten Hag to succeed at Man Utd after seeing first-hand what he achieved in the Eredivisie.

"I knew him because I played against him in Holland,” Malacia explained. “Actually, before I came here, I spoke with him on the phone and had some good talks with him. It felt good for me. You see what he wants.

"I think his vision is quite clear. Now, as both individuals and as a team, we have to develop that. It was a big decision to make so to know the club and the manager both want me, that was important for me."