Current Everton player and former Manchester United star, Ashley Young, has seen a rise in popularity as per this week’s Goalden View Popularity Ranking (GVPR), jumping up 15 spots and 1,571 points. Young had joined the likes of Jamie Redknapp and Darren Bent on Super Sunday to discuss the match between Tottenham Hotspur and his former club Manchester United. During the segment, Young shared insights and reflections on the game, drawing from his experience as a seasoned Premier League veteran.
Young’s appearance on Sky Sports is not a new phenomenon. The Everton right-back has previously featured on Monday Night Football, where he discussed his career and shared insights from his time in the Premier League. Additionally, he has made several guest appearances on the popular sports radio station, talkSPORT, further showcasing his willingness to engage with fans and pundits alike. Given his history in the media, his recent television appearance shouldn’t have caught Premier League fans off guard. We might reasonably assume that the reason for his rise in the GVPR this week is linked to his commentary and insights, which likely resonated with viewers and sparked renewed interest in his perspectives.
Young has stated that Manchester United’s wingers, Marcus Rashford and Alejandro Garnacho, look lost and lack confidence. He also suggested that the players should hold a “crisis meeting” and emphasized that the current situation is unacceptable for a club like United. He pointed out that the club’s DNA revolves around being proactive, pressing, and regaining possession, contrasting it with the current players who seem content to let Tottenham dominate the ball. While at times possibly harsh, Young’s comments did not go against the grain and were agreed with by most of the United supporters.
Fans found Young’s statements about the club’s situation to be accurate and refreshing. Players often hold back their thoughts when speaking publicly, but the Everton player voiced what many believe needed to be said, likely contributing further to his upward GVPR movement. So, will the senior pro continue with punditry after he hangs up his boots? It seems he certainly has the potential to do so.