Legendary former Manchester United goalkeeper Alex Stepney has urged Benfica to play Mile Svilar at Old Trafford later this month despite the young custodian’s howler against the Red Devils on Wednesday night.
Jose Mourinho made sure that his side targeted the 18-year-old goalkeeper on his Champions League debut and the strategy paid off after his mistake handed Manchester United the goal they needed to secure three points.
Manchester United's players were seen consoling the young custodian, especially Romelu Lukaku, who gave a pep talk to his compatriot immediately after the final whistle.
And Stepney, a European Cup winning goalkeeper, was pleased to see the players trying to encourage the youngster and is keen to see Svilar put the performance behind him.
The legendary goalkeeper believes Benfica should play the youngster at Old Trafford later this month as it would be a huge boost in confidence for the young shot-stopper.
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Stepney said on MUTV’s Matchday Review programme: “He deserved that from the lads.
“Okay, he made a mistake and it’s one of those things and you go on and finish with it.
“They are back here in two weeks time and I think they should play him here, not because of the mistake he made, but to give that lad confidence.
“As Jose said he is renowned and could become a top class goalkeeper.”
Svilar became the youngest goalkeeper to start in a Champions League game on Wednesday night.
