Gary Neville Performs U-turn on Manchester United's Senne Lammens Signing
Gary Neville has publicly reversed his initial skepticism regarding Manchester United's acquisition of goalkeeper Senne Lammens, admitting he has been "really impressed" by the young Belgian's performances. This comes after United secured their fifth victory in six matches under interim manager Michael Carrick, defeating Everton 1-0 at Hill Dickinson Stadium on Monday evening.
Lammens' Standout Performance Against Everton
The 23-year-old goalkeeper, who joined United from Royal Antwerp for £18 million last summer as part of a major reshuffle of the club's goalkeeping department, delivered another eye-catching display. In 22 appearances this season, Lammens has conceded only 28 goals, showcasing remarkable consistency for a player in his debut Premier League campaign.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Neville named Lammens as his man of the match against Everton, highlighting the goalkeeper's composure under pressure. "The goalkeeper, I thought, was my man of the match tonight - not necessarily because he made loads of amazing saves, but everything he did he just did really calmly and well," Neville explained.
Neville elaborated on Lammens' technical qualities: "The tip over the bar at the end, there was a shot that just bounced in front of him and he just held it, and then Everton had 10 corners. He didn't deal with every single one but he dealt with a lot of them, and I think having a goalkeeper of composure who just does his job calmly, isn't frantic, isn't sort of rushing around, I think makes a big difference in moments like that."
Neville's Initial Concerns and Changed Perspective
The United icon acknowledged his previous reservations about the signing, particularly given Lammens' youth and lack of pedigree in English football. "I had my concerns when he came in, I thought: 'Why would you take a chance with a goalkeeper who's young, who's not got the pedigree, he's played in a different league, he's going to come to Manchester United and it could eat him up'," Neville confessed.
However, Neville's assessment has shifted dramatically after observing Lammens' temperament and technical ability. "It is early, but he looks like he's got the temperament and he's got the technical quality, he's doing the right things - he holds the ball when he should hold it, he punches when he should punch, but even when he punches it's not one of those wild punches - everything seems under control," he noted.
Neville concluded with high praise: "This kid, he's come in and I really have been impressed with him. He looks like he's got a big, big future early days."
Looking Ahead for Manchester United
Lammens will aim to maintain his positive form when Manchester United return to action on Sunday, welcoming Crystal Palace to Old Trafford. The victory over Everton marked another step forward for Carrick's side, who have shown improved defensive solidity during their recent run of form.
Neville's comments highlight the significant scrutiny facing goalkeepers in English football, with the former defender noting: "I've said it before, people get tired me saying it, I do think [the goalkeeper] is the most difficult position and most scrutinised position in English football." Lammens' ability to handle this pressure while demonstrating technical excellence has clearly won over one of United's most respected former players.
