Ex-United striker backs Darmian for Old Trafford success

Former Manchester United striker Federico Macheda believes Torino full-back Matteo Darmian will be a roaring success at Old Trafford next season.

Plugging the right side of defence has been a priority for Van Gaal this summer after playing the majority of last season without an out-an-out right-back and Macheda believes Darmian, who is expected to complete a medical on Friday, has the characteristics that suit the Premier League.

“Darmian has character and if he finds the consistency then I am sure he’ll settle in very well. English football is much more physical and in his role it’s important to push forward as well as defend, but his characteristics already suit that.”

Darmian, 25, is the versatile player that fits the profile Van Gaal looks for in the transfer market. The Italian full-back has the ability to play right the way across the back four and can even adapt to a back three, with United switching systems often last season.

Darmian is a solid tackler and can also cover ground up and down the flanks. In the last three Serie A campaigns, only three players have made more tackles than Darmian (351).

For more stats on Matteo Darmian, click here to view his WhoScored player page