Manchester United coach Eric Ten Hag praised the performance of his players, after the important victory over Liverpool 2-1 on Monday evening at Old Trafford, at the end of the third round of the English Premier League.
Manchester United put his previous two losses against Brighton (1-2) and Brentford (0-4) behind his back, to present an enjoyable performance, defeat his traditional rivals in English football, and collect his first 3 points in the competition.
“We can talk about tactical matters, but it’s all about behavior, there was communication and a fighting spirit,” Ten Hag told Sky Sports after the match.
He added: “I wanted a different style and a different attitude and that’s what the players brought on the field, it’s just the beginning, we can play with more composure and more danger, be a team and have a good spirit and that’s what we saw today.”
Ten Hag praised his players, saying: “I am delighted that Rashford and Sancho scored both goals. Fernandes took responsibility and was encouraged by the captaincy. He showed leadership qualities with Varane. They made a huge difference. It’s not just about them. We need more leaders. When you want to win you need To the leaders and spirit we showed today.”
And he added: “I am happy with the performance, but we have to give it in every game. Do not just give it to Liverpool. Every game in the Premier League is difficult. We need to present it in every game, and start again in this spirit.”
On his exclusion of Cristiano Ronaldo and Harry Maguire from the squad, Ten Hag said: “I have a team and we have to use it. And in the very near future.”
He concluded: “We have the right elements, I am convinced of that, the transfer window is not closed and you need numbers and quality as well.”
