Erik ten Hag, manager of Manchester United, claims that his team’s persistent injury problems are causing them to lag behind.
Last season, United had more injuries than any other Premier League team, suffering 45. They were also without 10 first-team players for Thursday’s Europa League draw with Fenerbahce, nine of whom were injured. Veteran central defender Jonny Evans may return for Sunday’s trip to West Ham, but there are serious concerns about Brazilian winger Antony, who collapsed without anyone nearby after entering the game as a second-half substitute in Turkey and had to be taken off on a stretcher. Tyrell Malacia, Luke Shaw, and Leny Yoro have all made five appearances this season, including the Community Shield and is currently in his second spell out of action in this campaign alone.
Twelve months ago, United hired Gary O’Driscoll from Arsenal as their new head of medical in the hopes that he would help them with their issues.
However, it hasn’t occurred, and Ten Hag is aware that his team will find it difficult to reach their full potential unless a solution is discovered.
“We need more players available often,” he said. “And all have to work together on this point – the players, the coaching staff and all the other staff.
“We have to do better at that because we know when we have them we are a really tough team to play and we can be really successful.”
Also
United are currently 12th in the Premier League and 21st in the expanded Europa League after a run of three away draws and a home win over Brentford. Their draw with Fenerbahce means they have won once in seven games in all competitions, their longest since early 2023. The recent sequence of away draws is creditable, as they represent their hardest two Europa League games and a trip to high-flying Aston Villa. United face West Ham, who have had a week for manager Julen Lopetegui to sort out their problems. Ten Hag denies the circumstances of the loss to Tottenham, stating that it is unfair to judge his players due to the circumstances. He believes the team is resilient and determined, showing character, fighting spirit, and determination to win games.
