MAN UTD BOSS DEFENDS SUBSTITUTIONS DESPITE FANS’ GROANS
Erik ten Hag has hit back at critics after his substitutions during Manchester United’s disappointing 1-1 draw with Burnley on Saturday. The manager withdrew Rasmus Hojlund and Kobbie Mainoo in the 65th minute, replacing them with Amad Diallo and Scott McTominay. Although United took the lead through Antony in the 79th minute, they were unable to hold on as Zeki Amdouni equalized from the penalty spot.
The substitutions were met with groans from the Old Trafford crowd, but Ten Hag defended his decision, explaining that he needed to manage the team and prioritize winning the game. He believed that fresh legs and tactical changes were necessary at that point in the match. Additionally, he wanted to protect Hojlund and Mainoo, who are young players and had been experiencing fatigue due to a demanding schedule.
Ten Hag acknowledged that fans wanted to see the skills and contributions of Hojlund and Mainoo, but he emphasized that his job as a manager is to make the right decisions for the team. He also highlighted the risk of injuries, as both players had already suffered injuries earlier in the season. Despite the disappointment of dropping two points, Ten Hag stood by his substitutions and defended his reasoning.
