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via Reuters

Newcastle United thoroughly outclassed Manchester United. It was a game where the Magpies dominated proceedings with 58% possession and 22 shots. As a result, the Red Devils were rightly criticized with Marcus Rashford bearing the brunt of the wrath. However, the club’s manager Erik ten Hag was quick to defend his players, whom he believes will hit the top stride soon.

The result against Newcastle means ten Hag’s men have been winless in all their big-ticket games this season. Factoring in their injury issues, Champions League performances, and off-the-field controversies, Manchester United is not having a good season. The manager wants to support his players through this extended rough period and that is exactly the Dutchman’s approach.

Erik ten Hag leaps to the defence of Marcus Rashford

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Marcus Rashford, Manchester United’s player of the year in the 2022/23 season, had a game to forget. The Reds Devils boss was questioned regarding the recent form of the English winger at the post-match press conference. He said, “Yeah, I know the issue is coming up, but Marcus is investing a lot. We support him. He will return to his form.” The former Ajax manager did not comment on the Englishman’s defensive work rate, as he stated that he was not looking into individual performances.

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It seems ten Hag believes his team will get back to this level. He said, “No, I’m not hoping. I’m sure. We have seen good performances, this week against Everton and Galatasaray. You always want that you play, every game, a perfect game. We have so many games in a short period and you can have also less good performances and now we have to pick this”, as compiled by the club’s official website.

While the Dutch manager does have a point regarding the congested schedule, especially considering the injury crisis at the team, he would be expecting more from his senior players. Hence, that brings Rashford’s subpar performance even more into the limelight.

Read More: Erik ten Hag Laughs off Cristiano Ronaldo Comparisons for Alejandro Garnacho After 19YO Emulates CR7’s Iconic Goal-Scoring Celebration

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Disappointment continues for Marcus Rashford

Against Newcastle United, Marcus Rashford attempted 0 shots and created zero chances. He also completed just 11 passes in the match. Yet, it was his effort without possession that was highlighted.

He wasn’t tracking back and won just a single duel while not making any interceptions. Fans were not pleased by this performance and it appears the coaching staff shared the same thought as the striker was substituted in the 61st minute. With 2 goals in 13 league games, the season has been one to forget for the Englishman.

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Can Erik ten Hag turn things around? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.

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Written by

Adithya Narayanan

609Articles

One take at a time

Soccer was the first sport I played in my life. It turned out to be my favorite one by an absolute mile. In my younger days, I became a Liverpool fan but it was only when Jurgen Klopp arrived that my passion for the game intensified.
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Edited by

Daniel D'Cruz