Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been criticised by Paul Merson for opting to play Wout Weghorst in the deeper number 10 role against Liverpool.
23.02.2023 - 18:55 / manchestereveningnews.co.uk
Robin van Persie has praised Manchester United for their approach to the Europa League play off clash with Barcelona and suggested that he expects more entertainment in the second leg.
Erik ten Hag's side drew 2-2 with the Catalan giants in the first leg last week, thanks to a Marcus Rashford strike and an own goal from Jules Kounde. The Reds welcome Xavi's men to Old Trafford for the reverse leg on Thursday night, with a place in the knockout stages of the competitions up for grabs.
Former United striker Van Persie - who was present at training and Ten Hag's press conference on Wednesday - has suggested that his former side deserve credit for their ability to remain calm at the Camp Nou against a strong Barcelona side who are running riot in La Liga.
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The Dutchman also backed Rashford and Bruno Fernandes to have an impact when it matters, claiming that 'quality' players will always make a difference.
"It was like a Champions League-worth fixture," he told club media. "What I liked about that game was they always stayed calm. No matter what happened, they had to play with [nearly] 100,000 people against a very good side now and they stay calm and trust their own quality and ability.
"They know, sooner or later in a match, Marcus Rashford will have his moment. Bruno Fernandes is there. You have quality players in front who can make the difference. In any normal game, they will make that difference.
"It's all to play for now. From the fans' point of view, it's a joy to watch. Both teams want to attack, both want to play dominant football, both are very fit. I'm really looking forward to it."
Rashford scored United's opener
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has been criticised by Paul Merson for opting to play Wout Weghorst in the deeper number 10 role against Liverpool.
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Michael Owen was surprised Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag opted to play Marcus Rashford as a central striker in their heavy defeat to Liverpool on Sunday.
Bruno Fernandes believes Manchester United gave too much space away, allowed Liverpool too much time on the ball and also made it too easy for them to counter-attack during a shock 7-0 defeat at Anfield on Sunday afternoon.
Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp praised Christian Eriksen, Casemiro and Marcus Rashford ahead of his side's meeting with Manchester United on Sunday afternoon.
Gary Neville has lauded Erik ten Hag's ability to influence games with his substitutions and tactical changes as he paid tribute to the Dutchman's first trophy as Manchester United manager.
Marcus Rashford has opened up on the strict disciplinary measures implemented by Louis van Gaal that saw him fined every week.
Marcus Rashford has been awarded Manchester United’s second goal in the 2-0 Carabao Cup final win over Newcastle.
Wayne Rooney believes Marcus Rashford has rediscovered the directness, aggression and ruthlessness in front of goal that made him so dangerous when he initially broke through at Manchester United.
Manchester United legend Peter Schmeichel criticised Bruno Fernandes for a 'stupid' mistake and urged him to 'get a grip' after he conceded a penalty against Barcelona in the Europa League on Thursday night.
Former Manchester United striker Robin van Persie has lauded the impact of both Raphael Varane and Casemiro in Thursday night's Europa League win over Barcelona.
Manchester United fans sent a funny chant in Frenkie de Jong's direction during Thursday’s Europa League play-off win over Barcelona.
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David de Gea has praised Manchester United for defeating Barcelona in the Europa League, despite conceding an early penalty.
Manchester United's supporters lauded Luke Shaw after he played a key role in Antony's winner in Thursday night's 2-1 Europa League win over Barcelona at Old Trafford.
Erik ten Hag says Marcus Rashford is “unstoppable” due to his movement, skill and finishing abilities and has backed him to shine against any team in the world.
A whole host of Manchester United supporters slammed referee Clement Turpin after he awarded Barcelona a penalty inside the opening 20 minutes of their Europa League clash at Old Trafford on Thursday night.