Micah Richards gives Scott McTominay given brilliant new nickname after Manchester United late show

Micah Richards has praised Scott McTominay for forcing his way back into Manchester United contention.

A dramatic brace against Brentford may prove the catalyst for kick-starting United’s campaign. When McTominay came on the pitch after 87 minutes, Erik ten Hag’s side were 1-0 down - until the Scotland international saved the day.

The 26-year-old has struggled to cement a regular first-team spot under Ten Hag this season. While his commitment to the cause cannot be questioned, more stylish and fanciable names have been preferred. His two goals in added time to turn the game on its head could press his case for more minutes after the international break.

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Former Manchester City defender Richards put allegiances aside to praise the midfielder and christen him with a new nickname. Speaking on the The Rest Is Football podcast, Richards joked to Gary Lineker: “McSauce! McSauce we’re calling him Gary. When you get two like that we are calling him McSauce. I am delighted for him and this is coming from a Blue.

“He had been doing so well for Scotland, scoring goals in that more advanced position and he’s almost been written off. It is tough because, when you go back to the great midfielders that Manchester United have had, you are always going to get compared to them. Unfortunately, he’s not at that level but he can still do a job in that team.

“I saw on his Instagram he posted ‘this is what it means’ and I could feel that raw emotion. It meant so much to him. I am delighted for him. He’s more than just a ratter in midfield. He has good technical ability, good energy and good timing of his runs as well.”

Former England