Football
8y

Paddy McNair keen to play in midfield for Manchester United

Manchester United defender Paddy McNair said it would be "fantastic" to be switched to midfield for his club, having played there for Northern Ireland.

McNair featured in the holding role in both appearances for his country over the international break, as they drew 1-1 away to Wales then defeated Slovenia 1-0 at Windsor Park.

The 20-year-old has made nine United appearances this season, including four starts, with all coming in defence. His last start for Louis van Gaal's team was in the injury-hit side that lost 2-1 at FC Midtjylland on Feb. 18.

McNair told the Belfast Telegraph: "A lot of people said, when I was growing up, that I would end up in midfield and to have played there a few times at international level is great.

"I started playing centre back for United and maybe now people see me as a centre-back, but I think I'm more of a midfielder.

"If I had the chance to play the holding midfield role at United, that would be fantastic. If I'm told though to play centre-back, right-back or wherever, I'll be happy enough because I want to play games."

McNair has had a torrid season with injuries, having spent three nights in hospital earlier in the season after sustaining bruised ribs and an abdominal problem. In December, he also suffered an ankle injury.

The United academy graduate said: "We have Everton on Sunday and if I'm involved that would be great. I really want to keep my fitness up for the Euros and go into that tournament feeling confident."

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