Crystal Palace boss Frank de Boer says Timothy Fosu-Mensah can play in up to three different positions for the Eagles this season.
The Dutchman completed a season-long loan deal to the south London club earlier this week and has already trained with his new team-mates.
The 19-year-old found his opportunities limited under Jose Mourinho last term and the Portuguse boss was keen for the utility man to continue his development elsewhere this season.
Fosu-Mensah came through United’s ranks as a midfielder but was selected by Louis van Gaal first as a centre-back and then as a right-back.
And de Boer says he plans on primarily using Fosu-Mensah as a defender in a back three but says he could play in all three positions.
‘Timothy is a player who has great pace and incredible physical ability,’ said de Boer.
‘In today’s game you need players with strength and speed and is a player who can also play in midfield.
‘I am seeing him in our system as a right centre-back but he can also play full-back in a 4-3-3.’
Victor Lindelof’s move to United means Fosu-Mensah was even further down the pecking order this season but he says he’s looking forward to repaying de Boer’s faith in him.
‘The manager spoke to me about coming down to join Crystal Palace and it was clear that he wanted me to be part of his squad which as a player gives you a great feeling straight away,’ said Fosu-Mensah.
‘I must now repay that back by putting in some good performances for the club.
‘I am only 19-years-old and still have a lot to learn and therefore getting the opportunity to play more games on a regular basis will help my development.’
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