'Matthijs de Ligt can be an elite defender under Ruben Amorim' - Manchester United ace tipped to become key figure after rocky start to life at Old Trafford

Former Manchester United defender Wes Brown has no doubts that Matthijs de Ligt can become one of the cornerstones under new manager Ruben Amorim following a quiet start to life at the Old Trafford. De Ligt has been trusted by Amorim ever since he arrived at the club last month and the Dutchman has put on respectable displays.

De Ligt arrived at Manchester United in the summer after an underwhelming spell at Bayern Munich, although with his reputation as one of the finest centre-backs intact. Moreover, he would join his former boss Erik ten Hag, under whom he enjoyed the best moments of his career at Ajax. The reunion, though, didn't meet expectations as Ten Hag was fired in late October, making way for Amorim, while De Ligt received his fair share of criticism, too.

Speaking to Casino24.dk, Brown lavished De Ligt with praise and tipped him to become an influential figure under Amorim. "Matthijs de Ligt can be an elite defender for Manchester United," said Brown. "He’s had some really good games and when he settles into life at the club he’ll be a big success.

"He’s been playing at the highest level for so many years now at such a young age and now it’s about showing everyone what he can do at Old Trafford. I think he’ll find his rhythm in Ruben Amorim’s system and be a valuable player for many years to come."

After starting for the Red Devils in their 2-1 win over rivals Manchester City, the 25-year-old centre-back will hope to continue his fine form when his team faces Tottenham Hotspur in the Carabao Cup quarter-final on Thursday, December 19.