Darmian ‘takes his chance’ with start

MATTEO Darmian believes he ‘took’ his chance after making his first league start since January in United’s 3-0 win over Sunderland.

The 27-year-old was a surprise inclusion in the starting line-up at the Stadium of Light after Antonio Valencia was again ruled out through fatigue.

The Italian has mainly featured at left-back under boss Jose Mourinho, but was solid in his natural right-back berth on Sunday.

And, although he has only made eight appearances since the turn of the year, Darmian is ready to do his bit as the Reds looks to qualify for the Champions League.

“I think I always work hard to be ready for when the manager gives me an opportunity,” he said.

“I think I took it but I have to be focused and I have to work for it. And that’s it.

“When the manager gives me another opportunity, I have to be ready to help the team. The most important thing was the victory, though.”

United now turn their attentions to the first-leg of their Europa League quarter-final against Anderlecht on Thursday.

The trip to Belgium marks the first of six games between now and the end of the month, but Darmian believes United’s injury-ravaged squad is ready.

“Well, we hope to play as many games as possible because it means we are staying in the competition,” he added.