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Erik ten Hag has explained why he decided to substitute Marcus Rashford at half-time vs FC Porto, despite his goal.
Manchester United are now on a four-game run without a victory. The Old Trafford side are struggling for any sort of form under Erik ten Hag, while the defensive problems seem to be rearing their ugly head once again.
Up at the other end of the pitch, goals have been coming at an inconsistent rate. United found themselves 2-0 up early on against FC Porto, with Marcus Rashford scoring the opener before Rasmus Hojlund added a second.
However, at half-time, the Englishman was hooked by Ten Hag, leaving both fans and media somewhat shocked at the decision after Rashy’s attacking threat…
After the game, the Dutch manager explained a need to keep his players fresh and rotate. It wasn’t about Rashford’s performance on the night, rather, he has a responsibility to keep his squad fit, particularly as the games now start to come thick and fast.
When asked about the decision to sub Rashy off, the boss responded:
“We have to rotate. We didn’t start Garnacho after he had a great game, not only on Sunday but I think all season.” Ten Hag told TNT Sports, per The Sun.
“On Sunday we have another hard game [against Aston Villa] so we need players to be available and to be fit and fresh.”
Honestly, it feels like a cop out answer. For all of Rashford’s attacking quality, he did struggle defensively. I would never expect Ten Hag to address this publicly, but that does feel like more of the reason why the number 10 was subbed off…
It’s a tricky situation as Rashford did look like United’s biggest threat in the final third, and when you make a bold decision like that as a manager, you better ensure a positive result or these difficult questions will be asked.
I’d imagine this also causes real dressing room tension. Not only with Rashford, but the rest of the attackers who’ll now be constantly looking over their shoulders when they play either well or poorly.
If I’m being honest, I don’t think this situation has been handled well. At all. You better ensure a victory at the weekend against Aston Villa, or the question marks about Ten Hag’s future will run wild during the international break.
Do you think it was the right decision to sub off Marcus Rashford? Let us know your thoughts in the comment box below.