Rio Ferdinand has urged Manchester United manager Michael Carrick to give Leny Yoro an extended run in the starting line-up after praising the defender's performance in Sunday's 1-1 draw against Leeds United.
The former United centre-back was particularly impressed by Yoro's defensive work at Elland Road, where the Frenchman operated in an unfamiliar right-back position.
Despite Manchester United extending their winless run to six matches, Ferdinand believes the 20-year-old is showing the confidence and consistency needed to establish himself as a regular starter.
Ferdinand praises Yoro's defensive display against Leeds
Manchester United led through Bryan Mbeumo's first-half goal before Dominic Calvert-Lewin equalised shortly after the interval.
Although Carrick's side struggled to maintain their advantage, Ferdinand highlighted Yoro as one of the positives from the performance.
Speaking on Rio Presents, Ferdinand said: "I thought Leny Yoro, especially in the first half, defending the back post was top drawer."
"He looks like he's growing in confidence and he looks like he just needs a run in the team now."
Ferdinand was particularly impressed by Yoro's ability to deal with crosses and compete physically against Leeds' attackers.
"The way he defended those crosses at the back post and in those away games you've got to have people willing to put their bodies there," he added.
Carrick told to reward Yoro's growing confidence
Yoro has experienced an inconsistent spell since joining Manchester United from Lille in 2024, but Ferdinand believes his recent performances represent a significant step forward.
The former England defender pointed to Yoro's displays against Atletico Madrid and for France as further evidence of his improvement.
"I think every week he looks stronger, I thought in Madrid he looked solid, the game before for France he was outstanding at centre-back," Ferdinand said.
He also insisted that returning players should not automatically displace Yoro from the starting XI.
"I don't care who gets back fit now I think he needs stay in the team, prove his worth."
With United struggling for results, Ferdinand believes Carrick should prioritise rewarding players who are demonstrating improvement and reliability.
Key Points
- Rio Ferdinand wants Leny Yoro to become a regular Manchester United starter.
- Yoro impressed at right-back during the 1-1 draw against Leeds United.
- Ferdinand described his defending at the back post as "top drawer".
- The former United defender believes Yoro is growing in confidence.
- Ferdinand says returning players should not automatically take Yoro's place.
What's Next?
Carrick must decide whether to retain Yoro in the starting line-up as Manchester United attempt to end their six-match winless run.
The defender's versatility could prove valuable, particularly while United continue searching for greater defensive stability.
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