Former Blackburn and Chelsea striker Chris Sutton thinks Sofyan Amrabat looked ‘like a fish out of water’ playing left-back against Crystal Palace on Saturday.

United were unable to duplicate Tuesday’s 3-0 Carabao Cup victory, falling short at Old Trafford against a tenacious Palace. The only goal of the game came from Joachim Andersen’s deflected first-half attempt, and despite dominating possession, Erik ten Hag’s team were unable to break through.

Due to the absence of Sergio Reguilon, Amrabat was once again shifted to left-back. During Tuesday’s cup match, the Moroccan was brilliant in that capacity, sliding into midfield and easily marshaling Jesurun Rak-Sakyi.

But he had a much more difficult time on Saturday, this time against the seasoned Jordan Ayew. Sutton delivered his judgement on a difficult afternoon after giving away an easy free-kick midway through the second half.

“Given away a free kick, being driven back towards his own goal by Ayew and he palms it, a keeper would be proud of that,” Sutton told BBC Radio 5Live. “He’s not looked comfortable in that left back position today, like a fish out of water.”

Ten Hag was compelled to keep Amrabat at left-back despite the fact that the Fiorentina loanee was struggling. Fans were perplexed by the Dutchman’s substitutions, which saw Marcus Rashford being pulled off with more over 10 minutes remaining and Harry Maguire and Donny van de Beek coming on late.

United pushed for a late equalizer but failed to create many clear-cut chances. This is their fourth defeat of the season.

“Crystal Palace more than deserved their win,” Sutton added. “We know that if they get their noses in front they are a very, very difficult side to break down. A fantastic strike from Andersen and a fantastic defensive display.

“On the other hand Manchester United only forced Sam Johnstone into a few routine saves, there were a few good clearances from Palace defenders but aside from that they struggled to create. A worrying afternoon for Erik ten Hag.”