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By Martin Graham | 3rd Apr 2023
Erik ten Hag has defended his choice of substitutions in Manchester United’s 2-0 defeat to Newcastle on Sunday.
The Dutchman came under intense criticism for his tactical tinkering, or lack of it, as his side trailed the Magpies by a goal down in the second half.
In what was a rather surprising turn of events, Ten Hag took off defensive duo Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez at the 83-minute mark, when his side were down by a goal and chasing the game.
Martinez did not hide his frustration and was visibly enraged on the subs bench, even to the point of smacking a chair as the Argentine alongside defensive partner Varane were replaced.
Victor Lindelof came on, as did Facundo Pellistri, and Ten Hag was curiously asked about the thought behind his substitutions post-game.
Ten Hag defends centre back substitutions
“We were not happy,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports.
“We played too high in midfield and it was easy for their two centre-halves to go and attack.”
“We had to play a little bit deeper. Therefore we made the sub. Then we made changes to bring more energy.”
“Then in the end we were losing so we decided to go with three at the back and play an extra offensive player and I decided to take both centre-backs off with Lindelof to defend the spaces.”
Speaking more about the loss, Ten Hag added: “I hate to say it but they were better today – especially their determination, passion and desire.”
“They wanted to win more so they won. We had our opportunities but then you have to go for goal with the determination they did.”
“It wasn’t good enough. We allowed them too many chances. You have to be hungry and give everything every game. Our attacking game wasn’t good enough. I don’t want to focus on one person. It was a team performance.”
“We have to deal with the setback and learn a lesson. So many times recently, we came back after Liverpool. I don’t have that concern.”
“I believe in the team. I believe we’ll bounce back.”
The result means United are now without a goal in three Premier League games and more importantly, they have been overtaken by Newcastle and could even drop to 5th place by Monday night, should Spurs go on to win their game against Everton.
The Red Devils cannot afford to drop any more points, as they now realistically face the possibility of missing out on a top-four spot, if their form does not improve.
Martin Graham is an MFF sports writer
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