Ruben Amorim could give Antony new role as three Man United stars tipped to benefit

Jaap Stam has identified three players who could thrive under the management of Ruben Amorim at Manchester United, including Antony.

United have confirmed Sporting boss Amorim, 39, has signed a contract until June 2027 and will officially start in the role on November 11. The Portuguese coach was United’s top target and the only candidate they spoke to after sacking Ten Hag on Monday, the Old Trafford hierarchy have said.

United legend Stam is well-versed in the 39-year-old's tactics, leading him to suggest that certain individuals could flourish under the new regime. The former Reading boss pointed out Amorim's preference for three centre-backs and suggested that United are well-prepared to adjust accordingly.

READ MORE: 'Most exciting young coach in Europe' - why United moved for Amorim

READ MORE: Ferdinand identifies the 'big difference' United's players will notice with Amorim

Another key aspect of the new regime will be Amorim's choices on the flanks, with the wing-backs expected to shine. "[Diogo] Dalot, I think, is an ideal player who can play as a wing-back because he's got the pace, the stamina. He's got the quality on the ball as well," Stam told the Mirror, in partnership with BetMGM.

"On the left side, you can have [Luke] Shaw - if he's fit - then he would be the ideal player to play there." There's a significant "if" regarding the fitness of Shaw, who hasn't played this season and only made 15 appearances last term.

United also have Tyrell Malacia and summer recruit Noussair Mazraoui as alternatives on the left side of defence, although none may offer the same potential as a fully fit Shaw.

Stam has tossed in an unexpected suggestion that could save United a hefty amount of money, the often-maligned Antony. Stam believes a tactical revamp by the new boss could lead to a turnaround in fortunes.

"Antony has been struggling since he joined United," said Stam. "It's a pity for United and him as well, because the boy gets the opportunity to join one of the biggest clubs in the world, and he can't produce what he's been doing in Holland.

"We all know the Premier League is 10 times more difficult than playing in Holland. He needs to take his opportunity with the new manager coming in - and maybe he can even use him as a wing-back.

"He's tracking back, and he can go forward as well. You never know, a new manager might have certain ideas."

Antony's suitability as a wing-back may be questioned by many, given his previous defensive shortcomings. However, Ten Hag has previously utilised him as a left-back - most notably in a match against Arsenal last season - and any lack of attacking form may not be as noticeable if he was to move closer to the back line.

Jaap Stam was speaking on behalf of BetMGM. Play the new £1million Golden Goals game this season by correctly predicting Premier League scores. BeGambleAware 18+.

Try MUFC Pro NOW for free

Subscribe to our brilliant app for the best way to enjoy the M.E.N's unrivalled Manchester United coverage.

• No adverts, pop-ups or distractions - just our brilliant content presented in the best way possible.
• Comprehensive, round-the-clock coverage of the Reds, with agenda-setting breaking news and insight from Samuel Luckhurst and our authoritative team of United writers
• Exclusive content for subscribers
• New interactive elements including (coming soon) quizzes to test your United knowledge.

Try MUFC Pro for a front-row seat to the action at absolutely no cost for the first month. You can get started by downloading our app here on iPhone, or here on Android. If you already have our app, click on the ''MUFC Pro',' Subscribe' or ' Remove ads' links.

*Free trial auto renews at £19.99 annually unless cancelled. T&C’s apply. Ad-free indicates that you will not be shown standard display ad formats with the articles that you read, selected articles may contain commercial messages/affiliate links where contractually required.