Roy Keane hails composed Jadon Sancho and criticises Virgil van Dijk during Man Utd v Liverpool

Manchester United legend Roy Keane praised Jadon Sancho for the composure shown when he grabbed the opening goal of Monday night’s clash with Liverpool.

The former Borussia Dortmund winger has endured an underwhelming time since joining United in a £76.5million move last summer.

But he produced a moment of magic that had the Old Trafford faithful on their feet just after the quarter-hour mark when he fired Erik ten Hag’s side in front against their bitter rivals.

After a patient move, Sancho collected a pass from Anthony Elanga before rolling the ball under his foot, leaving James Milner on the floor, and coolly slotted the ball beyond the off-balance Allison before celebrating with his team-mates.

Speaking at half-time, Red Devils legend Keane told Sky Sports: “It was excellent and the goal was coming.

“You just felt every time United went forward, Rashford making some excellent runs, Liverpool, there were gaps everywhere and they were making Liverpool look average.

“The decision-making, nice and patient, they’ve gone back here, you think ‘ok, and this passing, nice, short and sharp, lovely play’, and Sancho, for a player that has not been playing that well, he’s showed great composure.

“Great finish, but obviously Liverpool will be disappointed.

“The one-two, Trent [Alexander-Arnold] again, on his heels, lovely goal, nice and simple, Sancho getting a helping hand from [Bruno] Fernandes telling him where the goal is. Fully deserved.”

However, Keane was not impressed with the role Liverpool defender Virgil van Dijk played in the goal.

The Dutch international centre-back was involved in a long discussion with team-mate James Milner in the aftermath of Sancho’s strike and Keane believes the former Celtic star had to do more to pressure the United winger.

“If you analyse Van Dijk here, and I think he’s been sloppy this season, he’s got to get out. He’s not moved his feet if you look at Van Dijk here.”