Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has emphasized that he is unfazed by recent criticism directed at him. Instead, his main concern lies in the infrequency with which he has had a fully fit squad to select from.
Despite high expectations following Ten Hag’s debut season in charge during the 2022/23 campaign, Manchester United’s performances in the Premier League have fallen short, making their chances of qualifying for next season’s Champions League seem unlikely.
Criticism has been directed at Ten Hag, particularly regarding the significant number of shots his team faces in matches.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
Speaking to the media ahead of their FA Cup semi-final against Coventry City on Sunday, the Dutchman highlighted his greater worry about the state of his squad.
“I don’t pay attention to external criticism,” said Ten Hag. “What concerns me is the fact that in the past 18 months, I’ve rarely had my preferred starting lineup due to injuries. This worries me because it affects team selection.
“The only instance I had a full squad to choose from was against Manchester City at home last season. In all other games, injuries have been a factor we’ve had to contend with. While injuries are normal in football, the extent of our injury woes, particularly in key positions, has hampered our ability to achieve desired results.
“That’s my reality, others may see it differently, but I can’t invest energy into that.”
With Mason Mount, Sofyan Amrabat, and Willy Kambwala ruled out for the Coventry match, Manchester United’s total number of separate injury or illness cases for the season has surpassed 60.
The injury crisis has forced Ten Hag to consider deploying out-of-form midfielder Casemiro as a center-back, with Harry Maguire being the only fit senior option available, albeit with minor fitness concerns.