Frustrated Asisat Oshoala criticises Man United's style: ‘Low block needs crosses’

Nigerian football icon Asisat Oshoala has voiced her frustration with Manchester United’s tactical approach following their 1-1 draw against West Ham United on Tuesday night.

The Saudi Arabia-based forward, known for vocal support for the Red Devils, suggested that Michael Carrick’s side over-complicated their play against the defensive Hammers.

Despite rescuing a point through Benjamin Sesko’s 95th-minute stunner, United struggled for the vast majority of the encounter to penetrate their disciplined hosts at the London Stadium.

The six-time African Women’s Footballer of the Year took to her social media account to highlight what she perceived as a fundamental flaw in United’s play.

Using Nigerian Pidgin English to drive home her point, Oshoala argued that United’s insistence on ‘tapping’ the ball around West Ham’s packed defence and through the middle was a tactical mistake when faced with a packed penalty area.

“Low block need crosses …….but no , Una wan dey tap ball. That guy for don cut him hair by now,” she posted.

The 31-year-old’s assessment suggests that the Red Devils’ reluctance to utilise aerial service, which eventually led to the late equaliser, played right into West Ham’s hands for 94 minutes.

Her comment regarding ‘that guy’ and his hair is a nod to the growing frustration amongst fans who are tired of the popular United fan. Frank llett, who will not cut his hair until the club wins five games in a row.

Oshoala’s critique aligns with Carrick’s post-match admission that the team lacked the ‘spark’ and ‘sharpness as reported by Pulse Sports Nigeria.

While the Red Devils dominated possession at the London Stadium, they often failed to stretch the Hammers backline, leading to a disappointing and lifeless performance before the late drama.

As a world class striker who made her name in Barcelona in the peak of her powers, Oshoala’s perspective carries weight.

With United switching focus to their next fixture against Everton, Carrck may need to consider whether a more varied attacking repertoire, including what Oshoala has advocated, is the key to unlocking the league’s stubborn defence for the rest of the season.