Erik ten Hag has pointed to a lengthy injury list as a key factor in Manchester United’s dismal run of form, leaving the manager fighting to save his job.
The Dutchman is overseeing United’s worst start to a top-flight campaign since 1989/90, though last week’s victory against Brentford provided some relief.
Currently sitting in 12th place in the Premier League, United faces a crucial match against West Ham on Sunday—a game Ten Hag cannot afford to lose.
Following a 1-1 draw against Jose Mourinho’s Fenerbahce in the Europa League, United has managed only one win in their last seven matches across all competitions.
In Istanbul, Ten Hag was without several key players due to fitness issues, and he also had to deal with a new setback as winger Antony left the pitch on a stretcher after suffering an injury shortly after being subbed in.
Ten Hag expressed uncertainty about the severity of Antony’s condition, who was seen leaving the stadium on crutches and with his left foot in a protective boot.
When asked about United’s struggles, Ten Hag quickly highlighted the impact of injuries, which have sidelined notable players including Jonny Evans, Luke Shaw, Tyrell Malacia, Harry Maguire, Mason Mount, and Kobbie Mainoo.
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“Having such a long injury list holds us back in our performance levels and our league position,” he stated. “When you don’t have your best players available, you can’t field the strongest team.”
Ten Hag emphasized the need for better fitness management among players and collaboration among the coaching staff.
“We have to work together to ensure more players are available because we know that when we have them, we are a tough team to beat.
With our full squad, we can be really successful, as we’ve shown in recent months.”