“I have never coached such a fantastic player in my whole professional career… He’s the only player following my instructions”: Erik ten Hag names ONLY ONE player who has never let him down since joining the Club
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been discussing his forwards after the draw against FC Twente.
Manchester United fans are waiting to see Joshua Zirkzee and Rasmus Hojlund share the pitch together.
For the second game in a row since Hojlund’s return from injury, Zirkzee was the one to make way for the returning Dane.
This was no slight on the former Bologna forward, with Erik ten Hag‘s decision a tactical one, rather than a reflection of his opinion of Zirkzee’s displays.
Ten Hag on Zirkzee
Speaking following the 1-1 draw with FC Twente, Erik ten Hag gave a glowing assessment of Zirkzee’s efforts.
He told club media: “Joshua is doing very good. He created a very good chance, it was a brilliant shot and a very good stop.”
Zirkzee has not scored for Manchester United since the opening game of the Premier League season.
He had just one shot at goal against Twente. His link up play was excellent and it is clear to see he is a strong addition – but strikers are expected to score goals, and take shots.
On the night Marcus Rashford did not have any shots either, and nor did Amazing. Something did not gel with United’s display.
Ten Hag added: “We have to look for more moments where we can dominate the ball and speed up the game to go for the second goal.”
Ten Hag on Hojlund
Rasmus Hojlund came off the bench and he struggled to get into the game, managing only five touches, with no shots at goal.
Speaking after the match, Ten Hag admitted Hojlund is still way off in terms of sharpness.
He brought him on because he believes in his ability to score – but against a well-drilled and alert Twente defence, United could not break through.
The manager said: “We are very pleased that Rasmus is back, of course, and now he has to come up to full fitness, full speed.
“He can score a goal, we know that. He’s very good in the box.”
