Versatile Netherlands worldwide Daley Blind insists he is capable of playing at centre-back for Manchester United.

The Dutchman was forced to play alongside Chris Smalling at the heart of United’s defence during their Premier League season opener against Tottenham Hotspur at the weekend and his performance was questioned by some in the media, who don’t feel he is the long-term solution in that position.

Daley Blind has argued his case for the left centre-back role at Manchester United and insisted he is smart enough to play in that position.

“I’ve said many times before that I just want to play”, he told United’s official website.

“I think Sergio looked the part, he came out and commanded his box which is what you want behind you as a defender because, when you’ve got a goalkeeper who comes out with that presence, it mops up a lot of the danger”.

Speaking on the issue of his physical ability, which many believe is not adequate for a defender, the former Ajax player added that he is smart and clever enough to cancel out his physical inadequacies.

Blind impressed during his first competitive appearance at centre-back and fans would have been surprised to see the likes of Paddy McNair, Jonny Evans or Tyler Blackett overlooked by Van Gaal.

Tim Sherwood’s side recently signed Rudy Gestede from Blackburn Rovers and the forward showed his attacking attributes with a headed goal against Bournemouth.

“I think we did well at the back, together with Chris, Luke (Shaw) and Matteo (Darmian) and we get a clean sheet so I was happy”, he said.