Southampton manager Ivan Juric believes rising star Tyler Dibling is better off staying at St. Mary’s amid interest from tomorrow’s opponents Manchester United.
Dibling has been the lone bright spot for Saints in a dismal season that looks certain to end with an immediate return to the Championship.
The 18-year-old has emerged as a regular starter on the right wing and has caught the eye with his trickery and pace.
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In our away kit for a double game week on the road 💛
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Those traits are believed to have alerted United, but new boss Juric believes the teenager is in the perfect place to continue his football education.
“Absolutely, because he needs to play and improve, so it’s better for him to stay here of course,” Djuric said.
Impressive in a forward role
Dibling has played in a more attacking role in recent games as Juric looks to find a way to lead Southampton – who have just six points from 20 league games this season – to a miraculous escape.
He added: “I think he’s better when he plays further forward because he doesn’t have to do as much defensive work. He can score one-on-one, so for now (playing up front) is good for him.”
United host Southampton tomorrow with Ruben Amorim starting to make an impact. A 2-2 draw at Liverpool on January 5 followed a penalty shoot-out success at Arsenal last Sunday in the FA Cup with United showing plenty of fight in both games.
Djuric said: “They have changed the manager and the style of play, playing 3-4-3 like (Amorim played) at Sporting. They’re trying to find the right way.”
