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Jose Mourinho ‘still has doubts over Henrikh Mkhitaryan’ at Manchester United

Old Trafford boss believes the Armenian winger needs to find another level when competing against top four rivals

JOSE MOURINHO still has doubts over Henrikh Mkhitaryan's ability to perform against the biggest clubs, according to reports.

The Armenian winger initially struggled to adapt to the demands of the Premier League following his arrival from Borussia Dortmund last summer.

 Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been tasked with improving his performances against the big sides
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Henrikh Mkhitaryan has been tasked with improving his performances against the big sidesCredit: Rex Features
 Jose Mourinho has made it clear what he expects of his winger
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Jose Mourinho has made it clear what he expects of his wingerCredit: Rex Features

But a fine start to this campaign has seen him create five goals in three games and propel United to the top of the Premier League with a hat-trick of wins.

But it is in crunch fixtures against the biggest sides that Mourinho still harbours doubts about the attacker's stomach and capabilities.

According to ESPN FC, Mourinho was disappointed with how Mkhitaryan fared against the big four last season.

He scored just once in that sequence of games last term, grabbing the winner against Spurs at Old Trafford.

United's first fixture against a genuine title rival comes against Liverpool on October 14.

It is thought that Mourinho's plan is to give Mkhitaryan an extended run in the starting XI to boost his confidence before then.

 Henrikh Mkhitaryan knows his role in the side is to create chances
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Henrikh Mkhitaryan knows his role in the side is to create chancesCredit: Reuters
 The Armenian's first chance to impress his boss comes against Liverpool on October 14
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The Armenian's first chance to impress his boss comes against Liverpool on October 14Credit: Rex Features

Mkhitaryan did perform well in the Europa League last season.

He bagged the second in the 2-0 final win over Ajax that got United into the Champions League.

And he does seem aware of his responsibilities for 2017/18.

Mkhitaryan said during United's tour of the US that his job is to set up Romelu Lukaku.

And he has obliged with two assists for the Belgian so far this campaign.

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