Bryan Robson believes Everton have ‘struck gold’ with the signing of Hayden Hackney and insists Manchester United should have fought harder to bring the midfielder to Old Trafford. The Manchester United legend, who also played for and managed Middlesbrough, expressed his dismay that his former club missed out on the 24-year-old.
Hackney's arrival at Everton
Anticipation is building for Hackney’s first appearance for Everton after the summer signing was left out of the squad for the pre-season win over Dundee. The club explained his absence was due to his ongoing integration following the first week of training. The Blues made Hackney a priority, agreeing an initial £16.5m deal with Middlesbrough after weeks of negotiations, with the fee potentially rising to nearly £25m depending on clauses.
Robson's criticism of Manchester United
Robson, 69, told betting website Hajpur: “I think when you’ve got a player with that sort of ability available for £25m, maybe he could have done a really good job at United for that sort of money. They need to build a squad capable of playing in the Premier League and the Champions League every week.” He added that Hackney would have been a “decent buy” for United, citing his great attitude, ability, and familiarity with current United boss Michael Carrick, who managed him at Middlesbrough.
Everton's coup
Robson described the deal as a “coup” for Everton. “Hackney is a really good signing by Everton. I think he’s been Middlesbrough’s best player. I’ve watched quite a bit of Boro and every time I watched them he was nearly always the best player on the park,” he said. “Everton have done a good bit of business there. I think David Moyes and Everton have struck a really gold deal to get him.”
