Eric Bailly thinks his Manchester United teammates should be criticised

Manchester United defender Eric Bailly believes "every player should receive criticism" and has called on his teammates to heed the words of manager Jose Mourinho if they want to improve.

Mourinho's treatment of Luke Shaw has set tongues wagging in recent weeks, but Bailly, who has impressed since joining from Villarreal in the summer, sees no issue with his manager's words and believes it is important to be given some tough love by the Portuguese.

"Most of the players at Manchester United are young – we are here to learn," the Ivorian international told the Premier League, relayed by The Mirror. "We have a great future ahead of us so it is important to listen to the coach's advice but also the criticism.

"Every player should receive some criticism because we aren't perfect, so we have to accept the criticism from the coach and keep on working because the most important thing is to work and improve and gather experience. For me, this coach is very important for us and for every young player at Manchester United."

One Manchester United player that has been free of Mourinho's wrath this season is Zlatan Ibrahimovic, who has been the leading light in a rather dreary campaign for the Red Devils.

The indomitable Swede, who recently questioned the quality of his teammates at the Theatre of Dreams and believes Mourinho is getting 200% out of what he currently has at his disposal, has scored 28 goals in his debut season in England. Bailly believes United are lucky to have the 35-year-old spearheading their attack.

"He has a great value amongst the team," Bailly added. "He brings us experience. His determination, he is very important to the team. He is someone important, we are very lucky to have him, so we will enjoy his experience and use it to go forward."