Matteo Darmian ready to fight to regain Manchester United first-team place

Matteo Darmian is unwilling throw in the towel on his Manchester United career despite being used sparingly by Jose Mourinho this season. He has made just four appearances so far this season with three of those coming in the Europa League.

The Italian right-back, who was first choice under former manager Louis van Gaal, has fallen down the pecking order and is currently behind Antonio Valencia. The Ecuadorian has been used regularly by the Portuguese manager, but is not available for at least another month after suffering a broken hand during United's EFL Cup win over Manchester City.

Darmian was called into the team for the 0-0 draw against Burnley on 29 October and put in a solid performance despite it being his first Premier League appearance of the season. The Italy international has been linked with a move away owing to his lack of first-team football, but has vowed to stay and fight for his place after admitting that at a club like United, every player has to fight for his right to play in the starting XI.

"I work out a lot for the first part of this season, and I have to be ready for when the manager gives me an opportunity," Darmian said ahead of United's Europa League clash against Fenerbahce, which they lost 2-1, as quoted by the Mirror.

"No, I already said that when I was out [of the first team], I work hard to improve myself and when the manager gives me an opportunity I have to take it. I have to be ready and help the team win the game.

"In Manchester United there are always top players and every day I have to fight for my position," the Italian right-back added.

Darmian, meanwhile, sent his wishes to Valencia and hoped for the defender's quick return. It is likely that he will return to the bench when the Ecuador international returns, but he will be given ample opportunity in the next month to stake his claim for a first-team place.

"I feel sorry for Valencia, for his injury. We wait on his recovery and I hope he's back as soon as possible," Darmian continued, as quoted by the Daily Mail.