Erik ten Hag highlights ‘only criticism’ about Manchester United performance during 1-0 win over Bournemouth
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag pointed out the only criticism, according to him, about the Red Devils' performance following their 1-0 win against Bournemouth in the Premier League. Casemiro scored the only goal for United in the ninth minute of the match at the Vitality Stadium.
Ten Hag claimed that despite his team pinning Bournemouth against the wall, they failed to kill the game off. Speaking to the media after the clash at Old Trafford, the Dutch manager said (via The Peoples Person):
“Today, I’m very happy, great performance. First 25 minutes was really good. It was a great goal from Casemiro. We pinned them back, didn’t let them breathe in the first 25 minutes. In building up, the press, counter press, unlocking the defence, we were magnificent."
He then added:
“The only criticism is we didn’t kill off the game, we had to produce that second goal but that’s the way this team are. It is not easy scoring goals.”
Manchester United took a giant leap towards securing a top-four finish this season and securing a place in next season's UEFA Champions League with the win. They now have 69 points from 36 matches and lead the fifth-placed Liverpool by three points, having played one game less.
What are Manchester United's remaining two league matches?
The clash against Bournemouth marked Manchester United's 36th game of the league campaign. They have two more games remaining in the season. The Red Devils will return to action on May 25 to take on Chelsea in a home clash.
Their penultimate game of the season will take place on May 28 as Ten Hag's side take on Fulham. While they look set to finish in the top four, another point from the remaining two games will seal the deal for the Manchester club.
They have so far won 21 of their 36 league matches. After the conclusion of the league season, United will play Manchester City in the FA Cup final. The Red Devils have already won the Carabao Cup this season. They have the top-four finish and FA Cup at stake in their remaining three games of the season.