Man Utd news: Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic have been the difference this season, says Francis
Romelu Lukaku and Nemanja Matic joined Manchester United for an initial combined £115million in July.
Lukaku has netted seven times in his first seven Premier League games for his new club, whereas Matic has shone in midfield.
Francis says the duo have made the key difference to propel the Red Devils to level on points with rivals Manchester City at the top of the table.
“I think two key players for me (have been the difference),” he said on Sky Sports.
I think they can afford to lose Lukaku more than Matic because I don’t think there is a similar replacement to Matic
Gerry Francis on Man Utd
“That’s been Matic, who’s been vitally important for organising in front of the back four, winning the ball back, similar to what (N’Golo) Kante has done for the last two seasons for Leicester and Chelsea, and Lukaku up front.
“He’s given them that little bit of extra pace in behind, proven goalscorer in the Premier League.
“Even if Lukaku gets injured they can use (Marcus) Rashford in that role.
“There is a lot more strength in depth at the highest level and obviously that has been shown by their results.”
Man United's Lukaku takes out defender then SCORES for Belgium
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Man Utd news: Nemanja Matic is more important than Romelu Lukaku, says Francis
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Francis was then asked who is more important to United, and his answer may surprise a few.
“I think they can afford to lose Lukaku more than Matic because I don’t think there is a similar replacement to Matic,” he said.
“I think Rashford can do exactly the same as Lukaku and will do as his year and his season progresses.”
Lukaku and Matic are both set to start for Manchester United against bitter rivals Liverpool this Saturday (12.30pm).
