Gary Neville backed Ruben Amorim's decision to drop Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho from Manchester United's matchday squad ahead of their derby win over Manchester City.
The build-up to the match was dominated by the surprise omissions of Rashford and Garnacho, with Amorim later highlighting the need to improve standards at the club.
The Man Utd boss' selection was justified. Amad Diallo seized his opportunity with both hands, earning the penalty for Bruno Fernandes' equalizer before scoring a winner in the 90th minute.
And former Red Devils full-back Neville insists Amorim was right to make a “real statement” by leaving out the two wingers.
“For far too long we have seen players walk across the pitch and still continue to play a match,” he told Sky Sports. 'It should be non-negotiable. If you don't give your all in your job, you're out – that's it, for everyone in life.
“We have seen Rashford and Garnacho lined up on the left and right wings for years, not chasing back when full-backs have gone past them, and still keeping their place in the team. Not anymore!
“I want Rashford and Garnacho to come back stronger and take the message they have received in the right spirit and become the very best players for Manchester United.
“They have the talent and the ability, but if you don't, there is no place for you at the club and there is no place for you in the team.
“When these two players – as the stars – set a poor standard and do not interact with their teammates in the right way, you have to do two things.
“You try to avoid it by benching them, or you can make a real statement by not accepting or tolerating it, no matter who it is. That's what Ruben did.”
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– Manchester United (@ManUtd) December 16, 2024
Man Utd looked set for another defeat when trailing 1-0 in the 88th minute at the Etihad Stadium, but their dramatic turnaround stunned Pep Guardiola's side.
Neville hopes the result will help improve the mentality and culture within the group, and has urged Rashford to use his negligence as positive motivation.
“Manchester United did not play well, but the brave decision the manager and the player made [Diallo] whoever played the game as it should be – they both got their rewards,” he added.
“You can't keep watching Manchester United being a mess year after year. There is a mentality and cultural problem in the team but [Sunday] maybe she can help.
“They will feel more empowered and stronger than they have ever felt in recent years because big decisions have been made.
“This is very good for Marcus Rashford. Ruben Amorim has told him to start with a clean slate. I hope Marcus plays against Tottenham on Thursday, and I hope he scores two or three goals and fights for every pass and ball, but that he didn't do it.”
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