“That is what is holding us back” - Manchester United coach Erik ten Hag explains one reason behind Red Devils’ poor form
Under-fire Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has blamed his extensive injury list for the club's poor start to the season. The Red Devils have been uninspiring despite splashing out on new arrivals in the transfer window in the summer.
The Dutchman led the 20-time English champions to their lowest-ever league finish (8th) in the Premier League era last season and looks set to endure another poor campaign in this.
Ten Hag believes the club's injuries have hampered the team, telling Sky Sports following his 1-1 draw with Fenerbahce in the UEFA Europa League:
"They are holding us back. In our levels and also in our position in the league. Because when you don't have the players available, you can't line up with your best team and that is what is holding us back in this moment."
Manchester United have been in a poor run of form recently, registering just one win in their last five games. The Red Devils next face West Ham United at the London Stadium tomorrow (October 27).
"It's really unlucky for him" - Erik ten Hag provides update on latest Manchester United injury
Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag expressing his sympathy for Brazilian forward Antony after he was stretchered off in the UEFA Europa League against Fenerbahce. The forward was later spotted leaving the stadium on crutches with his left foot in a protective cast.
Ten Hag lamented the latest injury his team suffered after the final whistle and shared his sympathies for the Brazilian with the press. He hoped to see Antony return soon, telling MUTV:
"It's really unlucky for him. I feel real compassion for him when he worked so hard in training, His training performances are that good that he deserved to come on. When you have to come off so quickly, that is really sad to see. Hopefully, it's not too bad, we have to wait 24 hours for what the assessment is."
Erik ten Hag is currently under pressure at Manchester United following a poor start to the campaign. The Red Devils are currently in the bottom half of the Premier League table and without a win in the UEFA Europa League. They have won only four in 13 games across competitions so far.