INEOS signing gets ultimate seal of approval from Rooney – he’s got the three attributes needed to ‘be a United player’

Bryan Mbeumo has got the approval of Manchester United legend Wayne Rooney after his display on Saturday.

The Cameroonian forward enjoyed perhaps his most scintillating showing in a United shirt since making the move, although his tremendous shift at Anfield six days prior will undoubtedly take the top spot for some fans.

How Mbeumo fared vs Brighton

Mbeumo etched his name onto the scoresheet twice against Brighton and Hove Albion at Old Trafford with two absolutely sensational finishes – the kind that make it crystal clear why INEOS spent over two months negotiating his arrival before agreeing a £71 million deal to bring him to the club.

His second goal sealed all three points in the seventh minute of injury time after the Seagulls had forced their way back into the tie via two late goals from Danny Welbeck (74’) and Charalampos Kostoulas (90+2’). 

When Anthony Taylor blew his whistle to signify full-time, it extended United’s winning streak to three successive games for the first time in Ruben Amorim’s tenure.

Even aside from his goals, Mbeumo was unstoppable throughout the night. He recorded four successful take-ons, four final-third passes and four touches in the box.

The 26-year-old also created two big chances, won two fouls and did his bit at the back by making seven defensive contributions. His passing accuracy was a hugely impressive 89 per cent (as per StatmanDave).

Rooney lauds impactful Mbeumo

Reacting to Mbeumo’s display on BBC Sport’s ‘The Wayne Rooney Show’, the Old Trafford icon said: “He (Mbeumo) has [shown consistency], and he’s had some really good chances in games as well and just not taken them.

“But I think his energy, his work rate, his desire is what you need to be a Man United player.

“And yeah, I did say that was a little bit unsure, but I think what he’s shown is he belongs there.”