'I lack certain things' - Manchester United midfielder Manuel Ugarte makes admission after defeat

Manchester United summer signing Manuel Ugarte played in defence for Uruguay at the weekend but he feels he "lacks certain things" when playing out of his natural position.

United signed Ugarte on a permanent deal for €50million (£42.3m), with a further €10m (£8.5m) in add-ons, on deadline day and he signed a five-year contract at Old Trafford.

Although Ugarte was seen as someone who could provide midfield stability and defensive cover, his first month hasn't gone as hoped and he's struggled to make a strong impression.

Ugarte has made just one start in the Premier League and his best performance for United so far came against Barnsley, who are a third-division side, in the Carabao Cup.

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Fans are hoping Ugarte can win a regular starting place and prove his worth after the international break but the 23-year-old has also been challenged when playing for Uruguay.

Ugarte started as Uruguay suffered a 1-0 defeat to Peru on Saturday night and he suggested to ESPN that he shouldn't be played out of position after the full-time whistle.

“It was not a good match," a disappointed Ugarte said. "We did not play well, it was a shame because I still believe that we are much better, but the match was ugly for us.

"The dressing room was strong before the match, the atmosphere was nice, but little by little we faded and we did not show good things in the match.

“Everyone can play and has the conditions to do so, but many times, when changing players it takes a little [time] to adapt. It is not an excuse either, the team's performance dropped. We need to go deeper, as we saw against Peru, we have to keep working.

"Honestly, I felt good with the ball, but I lack certain things as a defender. These are things that always enrich a player and we will see what happens on Tuesday."

Uruguay are playing World Cup Qualifiers during the international break and their match against Ecuador on Tuesday carries more importance following their defeat to Peru.

Ugarte is an established star for Uruguay and usually starts each game for his country.