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Edinson Cavani during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Burnley at Old Trafford, Manchester, December 2021.

Watch: Keane criticises Rangnick decision to not sub off Cavani

Manchester United legend Roy Keane was critical of Ralf Rangnick’s decision not to substitute Edinson Cavani during their draw with Aston Villa.

Rangnick’s side led 2-0 thanks to a brace from Bruno Fernandes but goals from Jacob Ramsey and Phillipe Coutinho cost United two points and increased the pressure on their beleaguered squad.

Cavani has been in impressive form over recent weeks, scoring in the draw at Newcastle last month, but underperformed during United’s draw at Villa Park on Saturday.

Speaking on Sky Sports after the game, Keane questioned why the 34-year-old wasn’t substituted after a ‘poor’ performance.

“United get 2-0 in front and you think ‘It’s game over’ but then we saw the weaknesses in United, that lack of control, particularly in midfield,” he said.

“When you open yourself up against United, they can rip you apart, but United weren’t quite at it with the counter-attack. I thought Cavani was poor, I’m surprised he left him on for the full game.”

The Uruguay international is one of a number of United players reportedly looking to leave the club and has been linked with a move to Barcelona over recent months.

But, in an interview with Sky Sports last week, Rangnick said: “I told him that if it was up to me I would want him to stay and I had a conversation with him.

“He came to my office and we spoke for almost half an hour and he told me that he will definitely stay, he will want to stay until the end of the season.”


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