Manchester United fans air their views on Weghorst

Manchester United fans have expressed their disappointment with Wout Weghorst’s performance during the club’s 2-0 defeat against Newcastle United on Sunday. The Dutch striker, who is currently on loan from Burnley, has made 19 consecutive starts for the Reds and had been impressing United boss Erik ten Hag with his form.

Ten Hag had suggested that Weghorst could have a future beyond the end of his loan spell at Old Trafford. Speaking ahead of Sunday’s match, the manager said, “Of course [he could stay permanently] and I think he is doing a lot of elements of football [I like] – doing them really well. And he’s doing a really good job for us.”

However, Weghorst’s forgettable performance against Newcastle appears to have changed the opinions of some United fans. The 30-year-old managed just 10 touches before being subbed off in the 62nd minute for fellow striker Anthony Martial. Many supporters took to social media to express their frustration with Weghorst’s contribution to the team.

“Listen, I really respect Wout Weghorst for coming and giving it a go, he’s probably a really good bloke as well but he’s just nowhere near this level unfortunately. With the greatest of respect toward him, Manchester United should not be looking to keep him beyond his loan,” said one fan.

“I can’t watch Weghorst anymore,” wrote another, while a third commented, “Marital has looked a threat since coming on. Just need him to stay fit because as much as he tries hard, Weghorst isn’t United level.”

Despite the disappointment with Weghorst’s performance, the striker has still played an important role in United’s recent success. Ten Hag noted that Weghorst has been “the leader of the process in pressing” and “making space for others” during his loan spell.

The defeat to Newcastle saw United drop to fourth place in the Premier League table, with the possibility of falling to fifth if Tottenham Hotspur beat Everton on Monday night. As for Weghorst’s future at Old Trafford, it remains to be seen whether the Dutchman will do enough to convince United to make his move permanent.