Ten Hag explains dropping Ronaldo for Man City vs Man Utd clash

Man Utd and ten Hag face manic 42-day period

We use your sign-up to provide content in ways you’ve consented to and to improve our understanding of you. This may include adverts from us and 3rd parties based on our understanding. You can unsubscribe at any time. More info

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has opened up on his decision to bench Cristiano Ronaldo for Sunday’s Premier League clash with Manchester City. The Red Devils go into the game knowing a win would see them rise to fourth in the table. And Marcus Rashford will spearhead their attack as they prepare to do battle at the Etihad Stadium. 

Manchester United have gone strong as they look to beat Manchester City and earn the derby bragging rights. David De Gea starts in goal, with the Spain international featuring in every match since the appointment of Ten Hag as manager back in the summer.

Diogo Dalot and Tyrell Malacia have been deployed in the full-back positions, with Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane partnering up at centre-back. In midfield, United have gone with Scott McTominay, Christian Eriksen and Bruno Fernandes.

And, up top, Jadon Sancho and Antony start on each wing with Rashford then deployed as a striker as he looks to continue his recent impressive form. Ahead of the match, Ten Hag has been asked about his decision to drop Ronaldo.

Man Utd transfers: Two players stopped the club making more signings

And he explained that Rashford being fit again was behind his thinking, with the England star set to lead the line. “He trained well, returned to team training and we took the right steps. He is fit.”

Rashford struggled for United last season, netting just five times as the club toiled under both Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Ralf Rangnick.

However, he’s already bagged three goals so far this season and was recently named the Premier League player of the month for September as a result.

Ten Hag himself claimed the manager of the month gong, having guided United to two league wins from two. 

DON’T MISS 
Man Utd can complete rebuild in January with three signings
What Ten Hag has told his players about the Glazers
The Glazers have five reasons to sell Man Utd

And Ten Hag believes Rashford can be a key player for United as they go in search of the biggest and best trophies in the land.

“It was quite clear from day one he was talented and I’m so excited to work with him,” said the 52-year-old.

“I knew already before what a huge impact he could have, he has the potential.

“I know he brings it every game and in every decision on the pitch. I’m really happy with his development and I expect him to keep going.

“We are quite positive about him playing. We have to wait and see the reaction of training.”

Want the latest football news? Join our brand new Facebook group by clicking here

One player Ten Hag has jumped in to defend ahead of the match is club captain Harry Maguire. The England international will miss the game with City today due to injury, having sustained a knock in the Three Lions’ 3-3 draw with Germany.

But Ten Hag has insisted he believes in his skipper, despite his form worsening in recent weeks. “By backing him,” he said when asked what he can do for Maguire.

“I believe in his potential and I tell him I believe in the player and the person.

WIN A FREE ENGLAND SHIRT FOR THE WORLD CUP!

“I’m sure he does [still believe in himself]. I’m convinced he will fight back. He’s aware of his great capabilities, and he will return.

“You know, as a defender when you make one mistake, you get hammered for that mistake. That is top football because there are good opponents and good attackers.”

United will be hoping to make amends after losing 4-1 to City in the same fixture at the Etihad last term.

Source: Read Full Article