Keane slams Mourinho for playing Young in defence

Kolkata, Februaryb16: Former Manchester United skipper Roy Keane insists that Manchester United will continue to struggle defensively so long as they keep faith with Ashley Young.

The legendary midfielder turned TV pundit believes it is his old club's frailty at the back that has seen them slip 16 points behind runaway leaders Manchester City.

And that despite the fact that United have the best defensive record in the Premier League, conceding just 19 goals in 27 games.

But Keane is adamant manager Jose Mourinho has got things wrong defensively.

He told ITV: "They haven't sorted out the defensive problems they have had over the last few years and that will continue.

"The two centre-halves need to do better. I've always thought with Ashley Young in your back four, you are going to struggle."

Young has made 19 league starts and at times has looked very impressive - especially going forward.

Mourinho has used him at left wing-back depending on particular tactics, but has recently started him ahead of Luke Shaw at left back which according to Keane is a huge mistake.

Despite what Keane thinks, Mourinho appears to value the former England international very highly.

Young recently took up the option to extend his £130,000-a-week deal by a further 12 months.

The former Aston Villa winger has surely made an impressive resurgence in his career since Mourinho took charge of the club.

The Englishman is a squad player but a very valuable one as Mourinho loves his crossing abilities and versatility.

However, despite all his good work, he has not managed to impress one of the club's all time greatests.