Manchester United Star Daley Blind Says He Prefers to Play in Midfield

Manchester United summer signing Daley Blind has told manager Louis van Gaal that playing at the midfield rather than in the back-line is "where he can help the team the most."

Even though the 24-year-old versatile star took up roles at the heart of the defence and especially at the left-back during his impressive World Cup, the Dutch boss has deployed him at the base of his 4-4-2 midfield diamond during most of his appearances at Old Trafford - as Michael Carrick was injured.

But following Marcos Rojo's recent injury and Chris Smalling's suspension, Blind was demanded to return to the centre-back role during the last Premier League 1-0 victory over Crystal Palace, making a solid pair with youngster Paddy McNair to help his side to secure a clean sheet.

Blind has now claimed that even though he is happy to play wherever van Gaal needs him, he feels more comfortable as a midfielder – as it is actually the role he usually occupied for Ajax before joining United this summer.

"I think midfield is a good position for me and it's also where I can help the team the most," he said to Manchester United's official website.

"Maybe my qualities are better for that position but, if the trainer needs me for the left full-back position, then I will play there. It is no problem for me."

The Dutch has become a crucial asset for van Gaal since his deadline day arrival at Old Trafford, playing the full 90 minutes in his eight Premier League appearances while scoring a goal against West Bromwich.

When asked to describe his playing style, he said: "I think I am a player who keeps the ball and helps the rest of the team.

"I'm somebody who tries to play the easy pass instead of the difficult option, but it's also there [in this area of my game] that I have to improve myself. I always try to do my best and do what the coach asks of me."