Manchester United moved up to fourth place in the Premier League table after they earned a hard-fought 1-0 win away at Wolves today.
It would be Ten Hag’s side who had the best chance to open the scoring during the first half, but Wolves ‘keeper Jose Sa got down well to his left to deny the lively Alejandro Garnacho after the Argentine teenager found himself through on goal.
Just shy of the hour mark Wolves skipper Ruben Neves would force David De Gea into a full length stop from a fiercely struck free-kick from all of 30 yards.
Man United’s man in form Marcus Rashford was surprisingly dropped for what Ten Hag called ‘internal disciplinary’ reasons, but the academy graduate came on at half time and ultimately proved to be the difference between the sides.
In the 76th minute the 25-year-old England international cut in off the left, played a one-two with Bruno Fernandes, after showing superb strength and composure, Rashford then hammered a low finish between the legs of Sa to win the game for his side.
Marcus Rashford had five goals in 32 games last season.
He has 11 in 22 already this season 🔙 pic.twitter.com/OzOHvgALyG
— B/R Football (@brfootball) December 31, 2022
Speaking afterwards Man United boss Ten Hag revealed that he was unhappy with sides’ first half showing, but was delighted with the performance of his substitutes Rashford and Fred.
“It’s good after the decision, Rashford came in,” the Dutch coach told BT Sport. ”He was bright, he was lively and he scored a goal to give a good reaction. Everyone has to adhere to the rules and if you react like this, it is the right answer.
“We were not that good in the first half. In my opinion the second half was better. Fred was winning second balls and linking play when he came on.
“In the first half, you analyse the game but sometimes things do not work as expected. Wolves did not create many chances and we did but you have to be sharp.
“I was not happy at half time and I told them with this attitude they will not win this game and everyone had to give 10% more.”
