I’ve only picked my favourite team once as Manchester United manager – Ten Hag claims

Erik ten Hag was appointed Manchester United manager in the summer of 2022.

Ten Hag had a successful first season as Manchester United manager, but his second season has been far from impressive.

Amid growing pressure at Old Trafford, Ten Hag has revealed how he has been unable to have a full squad to choose from almost all through his time as Manchester United manager.

According to the Dutchman, the only time he has had a full squad was last season’s Manchester derby, which Manchester United won 2-1.

Speaking to the press ahead of United’s FA Cup semi-final with Coventry City on Sunday, Ten Hag said: “I don’t have any concern about what is said on the outside.

“What concerns me is that in 18 months, I have never had my favourite team on the pitch once, because players were injured – that concerns me.

“In fact, there was only one time, against City at home last season. That is the only time I had a full squad to pick my full team.

“In all the other games, there was an injury aspect that we have had to deal with. That’s normal in football, but not as many as we have had. I know that when we’ve had so many injuries in crucial key positions, you can’t deliver the results you want to bring.

“That’s OK, but that’s my truth – others can have different truths but I can’t put any energy into that.”