Former Arsenal defender William Gallas thinks that Manchester United defender Raphael Varane faces a challenge to win back his starting spot.
The Frenchman has often been a calming presence at the back for United, but recent problems with form and fitness have seen Jonny Evans and Harry Maguire preferred in central defence.
That has led to speculation that the former Real Madrid man could consider an exit from Old Trafford in the near future.
Speaking to Genting Casino, Gallas believes that Varane will have to prove himself in training and hope for a chance to get back on the pitch to show his worth.
He said: “I think that Varane is currently on the Manchester United bench because he hasn’t been at his best. When you play for a top club like Manchester United, you have to put in really good performances in every single game. If Erik ten Hag isn’t picking him and prefers other players, that tells you that his game hasn’t been at the highest level this season.
“Varane knows that he has to perform in every single game. He knows there are other players that are pushing him. If I was in Varane’s situation, then I would fight. I would be giving everything to get my place in the team back. At training, he needs to be the best. He needs to work hard.
“The season is long. Varane has to be patient and, when he gets an opportunity, he has to take it with both hands. This will be the first time in a long time that Varane has found himself on the bench – I think he needs to show his manager how good he is and that starts with being the best in training.
“Ten Hag prefers the partnership between Evans and Maguire at the moment. They’ve been playing quite well. The manager picks the players he wants to because he thinks those players give him the best chance of winning football matches.”