Manchester United star Patrick Dorgu has made his preferred position clear, stating he would rather play in defence despite manager Michael Carrick deploying him in various roles. The 21-year-old arrived from Italian side Lecce as a left-back, but Carrick has frequently used him in more advanced positions.
Recent weeks have seen Dorgu return to his favoured role due to Luke Shaw's injury absence. While he acknowledges his versatility and ability to challenge Marcus Rashford on the left flank, he has insisted he would rather remain at left-back as opposed to chopping and changing.
Dorgu's preference and versatility
"I'd prefer to have one fixed position," he told Danish outlet Tipsbladet. "It makes things easier to work on during training, but many players today can play multiple positions."
"I just want to be on the pitch, regardless of the position. I started my professional career as a left-back, so that feels most natural to me, but I can also play the attacking roles I do at United."
Dorgu has featured six times for United this campaign, contributing two assists. However, results haven't matched expectations, with the Red Devils securing just one victory from their opening five Premier League fixtures.
Competition for places
He remains committed to proving his value to Carrick in the months ahead. "There is stiff competition for places from talented players. There's a left-back (Shaw) who has been at United for 12 years. And then there's Rashford, who has just returned from Barcelona, where he performed well," he added.
"We also have [Matheus] Cunha, who performed well during the months I was injured. So, there are three really good players who have done well in the Premier League."
"It's a challenge, but competing against such good players is also what can make me a better footballer. I can learn from them, and when I get the chance, I need to show the coach that he can rely on me."
International duty and upcoming fixtures
Dorgu is currently on duty with the Danish national squad for the first international break of the season. His country are scheduled to face Norway, Wales (twice) and Portugal over the coming weeks.
After fulfilling his international obligations, Dorgu will redirect his focus towards United and their push to climb the standings under Carrick. Their next fixture sees them take on fellow strugglers Tottenham Hotspur at Old Trafford. In total, Dorgu has featured 54 times for United since his arrival, scoring four goals.
