Ruben Amorim explains why Alejandro Garnacho was dropped to bench for Fulham FA Cup clash

Manchester United boss Ruben Amorim opted to utilise Alejandro Garnacho from the bench in the FA Cup against Fulham at Old Trafford following a dramatic few days for the winger

Ruben Amorim revealed Alejandro Garnacho had to settle for a place on the bench in Manchester United’s FA Cup clash against Fulham due to an injury issue.

The Argentina international has been the subject of scrutiny in recent days after heading straight down the tunnel after being substituted in the Red Devils’ previous game against Ipswich. The youngster appeared to want to change his shirt, but also posted to Instagram to hint his displeasure at the decision.

United’s star, who drew interest from Napoli during the transfer window, apologised for his behaviour ahead of this weekend. But a knock slowed him in his tracks.

Garnacho was introduced on Sunday after 53 minutes with United a goal down. The 20-year-old made an important contribution as he relayed the ball to Diogo Dalot, who crossed into Bruno Fernandes to level the scores at Old Trafford.

Ahead of the game, Amorim revealed Garnacho picked up an issue against Ipswich, and looked to play down any connection to his reaction to being replaced. The Portuguese boss seemed happy to have the winger at his disposal.

“Garnacho had an issue last game so we are using Eriksen because he is fit. We have Garnacho on the bench if we need him because it is a game that decides if we go into the next stage. We are going to try to use the characteristics of Chris which is quite different from Garnacho.

“The substitution (last game) was clear, he paid for the dinner and he’s ready to go. He’s working really well so I hope he continues to have an impact if we need it in the game.”

Earlier in the week, Amorim revealed that Garnacho would pay for a squad dinner in order to make amends. “It was funny because in the next day he came to me, to my office,” said Amorim.

“I did some investigations, and he went to the dressing room, he changed his clothes because he was wet. He watched the game in the different [place], not on the bench. In the end of the game he was there, then he went home, so there’s not an issue there.

“But I told them that in Manchester United everything is important, and the perception in a big club is really important, so he’s going to pay a dinner to all the team, and that’s it. I think he understands. He was subbed, he was playing well and has to go off in that moment of the game. It’s hard to deal with everything but they have to deal with everything. I just try to help them be better footballers.”

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