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Eric Bailly: Manchester United have a great future with Jose Mourinho

Manchester United will have a great future if the players continue to take on board Jose Mourinho's criticism, defender Eric Bailly has told the official Premier League website.

United are currently in fifth place in the Premier League after a season that has contained positive displays but also frustrations, including nine home league draws.

Mourinho has made his frustration at those growing pains clear, publicly criticising some individuals as well as taking players to task within the dressing room.

And Bailly, a summer arrival from Villarreal, said that would help United's players realise their full potential.

"Most of the players in Manchester United are young -- we are here to learn," the 22-year-old said.

"We have a great future ahead of us so it is important to listen to the coach's advice but also the critics.

"Every player should receive some criticism because we aren't perfect, so we have to accept the criticism from the coach and keep on working because the most important thing is to work and improve and gather experience.

"For me, this coach is very important for us and for every young player at Manchester United."

Luke Shaw, Anthony Martial and Marcus Rashford are among the young talent counterbalanced by elder statesmen like Zlatan Ibrahimovic.

Ibrahimovic, 35, has 28 goals in all competitions and Bailly said: "He has a great value amongst the team.

"He brings us experience. He is someone important -- we are very lucky to have him, so we will enjoy his experience and use it to go forwards."