26 January 2023 , 09:39
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Roy Keane urged fans to give "give the guy a chance" as he defended Manchester United's decision to sign Wout Weghorst.
Erik ten Hag brought in his fellow Dutchman on loan until the end of the season in mid-January to provide him with a much-needed reinforcement up front. Weghorst, 30, scored his first United goal on Wednesday night to help his new side secure a 3-0 victory at Nottingham Forest in the first leg of their EFL Cup semi-final.
The Netherlands international showed his predatory instinct by reacting fastest to Wayne Hennessey's save to keep out Antony before lashing home powerfully. Keane saw the 45th-minute goal at the City Ground, which doubled United's lead, as the ideal justification for Weghorst's midseason transfer.
"Great finish, look at his reactions," Keane said of Weghorst at half-time. "People have been critical that he's come to the club. That's what he's been brought to the club for. Huge goal for United."
Weghorst earned more praise from Keane in the Sky Sports studio at full-time. The Old Trafford legend declared United's new No.27 is "no mug", highlighting the fact he has scored five goals in 19 Netherlands appearances despite struggling at Burnley last season.
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Keane also stressed the Red Devils' need to bolster their frontline after Cristiano Ronaldo's departure at the end of November and due to Anthony Martial's ongoing injury issues.
"Man United had to bring someone in," Keane added on Weghorst. "The manager made it clear there was no money to spend. They lost Ronaldo, [there are] questions marks about Anthony Martial's fitness, so I can see why they gambled on him.
Wout Weghorst scored his first Manchester United goal against Nottingham Forest (Getty Images)Do you agree with Roy Keane's verdict on Wout Weghorst? Have your say in the comments!
"I don't think he'll be a prolific goalscorer but if he pops up with the odd important goal like that and he helps Marcus [Rashford]. He's an international player - he's no mug! The perception about him, because he struggled in a Burnley team that were having a difficult season, people kind of judge him on that. Give the guy a chance, he scored an important goal for United tonight. Good luck to him."
Although Keane insists Weghorst has plenty to offer United, he admitted the striker's lack of pace will require his teammates to adapt their approach on the front foot, adding: "His lack of pace can be a problem when United are trying to play on the counter-attack but they'll need to play to his strengths.
"He linked up well, took his goal well. There's a reason he came on loan, because he's obviously not top level. But the important thing is that the manager knows him well. You need characters in your dressing room."