Erik ten Hag explains his reason for playing some United youngsters in Crystal Palace win

Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag insists his decision to play a much-changed United team in our EFL Cup win over Crystal Palace was to give game time to some of the United youngsters.

The Dutchman feels the youngsters all deserved a run-out in the first team in order to aid their progress.

“I think we had many young players on the pitch, and you see they are progressing,” he said.

“With me you don’t get the opportunity, you have to deserve it. Those young players who come on, from Hannibal, to [Facundo] Pellistri, to Garnacho, to Dan Gore, they all deserve it, to get playing time.

“They have to show it every day in training, with our coaches. Then you get an opportunity and then you have to take it.”