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Erik ten Hag says that Man United’s injuries are “not normal” ahead of tomorrow’s FA Cup semi final against Coventry City.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference, Ten Hag was asked whether he thinks he has been judged unfairly this season.
“I don’t put energy in this, if I am judged fairly or not,” he replied.
“I know what we are doing here and I know why I am here – to bring trophies and also to create economic value. So we are working on those.
“But in the process you have setbacks, and I can look at this and I can see it realistically, I can’t go into emotions, I see it realistic, rational, I’m only focussing on my team, to improve my team, to improve individuals.
“I don’t have any concern. What concerns me is that in 18 months I have never had my favourite team on the pitch in 18 months, because players were injured – that concerns me.
“There was only one time, against (Manchester) City at home last season. That is the only time I had a full squad to pick my full team.”
“Injuries are normal in football but not as many as we’ve had. So many injuries we’ve had in crucial positions. When you’ve had that many, you can’t deliver the results you want to win. That’s my truth – others can have different truths, but I can’t put any energy in that.”
The comments come on the back of news breaking today that Willy Kambwala, Mason Mount and Sofyan Amrabat have all picked up injuries in training and will not be available for tomorrow’s game.
Attention then turned to Rasmus Hojlund and his goal drought.
“He was on a fantastic run but then broke his rhythm. Why? many reasons. For instance he was in a good run when we had many players available and could bring out a strong side,” Ten Hag said.
“After his return from injury we had to make compromises which decreases his performance.”
The manager was also asked whether he remembers Louis van Gaal leading United to their last FA Cup triumph and whether he has a relationship with his compatriot.
“I have a very good relationship with Louis, but we don’t talk actually the last time about United. But everywhere that Louis was, he had success, he won trophies, and also here at United.
“I don’t think I watched the game but I’m fully aware of it and that he’s the last manager to win the FA Cup for Manchester United.”
For the first part of the press conference, click here and for specific quotes on Casemiro from that section, click here.
Tomorrow’s match at Wembley kicks off at 3.30pm.
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