Paul Merson hits out at Solskjaer treatment of Van de Beek as Everton prediction is made

Manchester United have “missed a trick” with Donny van de Beek, with Paul Merson backing Frank Lampard to revive the midfielder’s career at Goodison Park.

The central midfielder was hoping to leave Manchester United on a temporary basis after featuring just eight times in the Premier League this term. Leeds were also considering an approach, while interest also came from Everton and Newcastle.

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As it was, Van de Beek, 24, went on to join Everton on transfer deadline day. His arrival coincided with the appointment of Frank Lampard, a legendary midfielder who will now hope to influence the Dutchman’s game.

And Arsenal hero Merson is backing Van de Beek to get his career back on track with the Toffees.

The pundit is also highly critical of United’s treatment of their £40m signing from Ajax. Indeed, he started just 11 games during his 16 months under Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s management.

“I felt sorry for Donny van de Beek at Manchester United,” Merson told Sportskeeda.

“He never moaned and just got on with it. I think Manchester United have missed a trick here. He’s a very good player and I think he’ll be very successful at Everton.

“Frank Lampard can get Van de Beek’s career going. He was a top player at Ajax but fell behind the eight-ball at Manchester United.”

Asked why he may have fallen short at United, Merson had an interesting theory.

“At a club of that stature, you need to hit the ground running the minute you’re at the