Erik ten Hag was under increasing pressure yesterday night as Manchester United almost lost to Sheffield United, but they rallied to win a pivotal match.
Jayden Bogle scored the game-winning goal for the Blades after intercepting a bad ball from Andre Onana. Just before halftime, Harry Maguire levelled the score for the Reds with a flick of the wrist.
Just after halftime, United fell down once again when the lowly visitors’ Ben Brereton-Diaz scored. Bruno Fernandes scored twice, and Rasmus Hojlund scored from close range, demonstrating the hosts’ will to win.
Ten Hag’s encounter with the newest member of the Academy
The day Ethan Wheatley made his professional debut as a late substitution for Rasmus Hojlund on April 24 will remain memorable for his family. No matter your opinion of Ten Hag, you can’t deny his dedication to promoting youth players to the main squad.
Though it has gotten simpler to do so this season owing to injuries, Ten Hag’s jest with Wheatley after giving him instructions implies he has formed a close relationship with the next generation, something INEOS is sure to appreciate. Despite its insignificance, the club’s 250th academy graduate would have taken great pride in that little moment.
The Dutchman’s job security will be unaffected by Wednesday’s performance by Ten Hag and Wheatley if INEOS is serious about building a younger profile team.
Old Trafford conveys two distinct signals to Ten Hag
Even while there is still resentment against the manager and the current season, it is evident that the supporters that attend games are prepared to support him. After a rough few days for the club, Ten Hag came from the tunnel before the match and the Stretford End applauded him for a long time.
Even if Ten Hag has the support of the fans, Antony still has a long way to go before he can win them back. There were raucous shouts as Amad took his position after yet another ineffective performance.
It seems that Antony may be one of the casualties of this shift, since the supporters are now eager to see new faces on the squad.
Despite playing pivotal roles in Ten Hag’s comeback win, two United players separated themselves. With a brace and a heroic comeback, Fernandes proved why he is now captaining the Reds.
What really struck out, however, was the guy the Portuguese brought in to replace the outgoing captain. After Casemiro, a midfielder turned defence, had a rocky first half, Maguire remarkably led him through the second half, demonstrating all of his expertise against his former side.
His self-assurance in releasing the ball from defence and driving the Reds forward is contagious, and he seems to be among the select few who can be relied upon when the going gets tough.
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