Erik ten Hag 'proud' but says Manchester United 'have to blame ourselves' for 'stupid mistakes' in Liverpool draw
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Published 07/04/2024 at 19:26 GMT
Manchester United let a lead slip for the third time in three games as they drew 2-2 at Old Trafford against Liverpool in the Premier League on Sunday afternoon. Manager Erik ten Hag suggested mental and physical tiredness might have been at play for the latest disappointment, but said his team should not continue to make such mistakes in winning positions.
Erik ten Hag
Image credit: Getty Images
Erik ten Hag said that Manchester United “have to blame ourselves for making stupid mistakes” after their 2-2 draw with Liverpool.
United once again blew a lead late on, days after losing 4-3 in dramatic circumstances against Chelsea.
Last weekend, United conceded a 99th-minute equaliser against Brentford in a 1-1 draw.
This time they were 2-1 up against their rivals but conceded an 84th-minute penalty scored by Mohamed Salah, ending the game with the points shared.
That leaves United 11 points behind Tottenham in fifth, and with almost no realistic chance of a top-four finish that would guarantee UEFA Champions League qualification.
"Very mixed emotions," Ten Hag told the BBC.
"On one side, I am disappointed that we have dropped seven points in one week after being in winning positions, but we have to blame ourselves for making stupid mistakes.
"On the other side, I am very proud. You see how we are improving and the potential of this squad is amazing - I am proud.
"In decisive areas we were losing battles especially with young players we were not confident to win them [duels].
"We encouraged [the players] in the second half to do better and they stepped up."
The Dutchman discussed what might have caused the failure hold onto a lead once more.
"It's two things," he said.
"One thing is physical after Thursday, a big intense game, and then return from London dealing with the frustration. On the other side is the belief that you can win such duels."
Mixed injury news for Ten Hag
Ten Hag also discussed the fitness of two central defenders, Jonny Evans and Raphael Varane, warning that: "I don’t think at short notice they will return."
He was more optimistic about the condition of Marcus Rashford, who was subbed off in the second half.
"I'm not sure, but I don't think it will be long," Ten Hag said of the striker's injury.
Ten Hag reserved praise for Kobbie Mainoo after the 18-year-old midfielder scored once again with a neat, curling finish inside the box to put his team in front.
He said: "Yes [Mainoo is a fantastic talent]. We know that. He gets better from match to match and I hope he continues."
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