Everton secured another positive result at Old Trafford this afternoon, but most of the post-match conversation has been based around Duncan Ferguson's treatment of Moise Kean.
The 19-year old was introduced as a substitute in the 70th minute only to be taken off himself 18 minutes later. The Everton boss claimed that he only made the sub in order to waste time, but nobody is buying that excuse.
Many have questioned the wisdom behind denting the youngster's confidence in such a manner and his decision to do so has certainly split opinion.
Speaking in the Sky Sports studio this evening, Jamie Carragher said the move was a show of strength from Ferguson as he sought to put his stamp on the team.
He may have taken criticism for that, but what I like about it is it's a brave decision. Managers at times have to make brace decisions.
People may not agree with it, but it's a big decision to bring somebody off who's a record signing...
Making that brave decision to bring Kean off, a big money transfer, he's actually done something that Freddie Ljungberg hasn't done in putting a stamp on the team, an Everton team who aren't at Arsenal's level.
He's come up against Chelsea at home and Manchester United away and got four points. I don't see how they can give the job to somebody else right now.
Frosty reception from Moise Kean...❄😳
The substitute is subbed himself as Duncan Ferguson makes a big call! pic.twitter.com/3Y4qylA0eq— Sky Sports Premier League (@SkySportsPL) December 15, 2019
Bacary Sagna didn't agree. While he stopped short of claiming the Scot should be criticised for the switch, he did feel it was very harsh to embarrass a young player in such a manner.
Something bothered me about the reaction he had towards Kean when he came off. If it's only a tactical reason, was he not happy with his defensive work?
He shouldn't be criticised, but he could have had a word with him, he's only (19-years old). He may not understand.
He could have had a talk with him. In front of everybody, on TV, it's not really nice. Coming from an ex-player, as a player you want to feel annoyed, even if it's only for a short period of time.
I think something is wrong and it's not only tactical. Maybe he was not happy with his defensive commitment, but it was not just to waste time.
