Erik ten Hag has said injuries are holding Manchester United back after a disappointing start to the season.
Ten Hag has overseen the club’s worst-ever start to a Premier League campaign, with the Red Devils 12th – and boasting a minus two goal difference – after eight games played.
Their fortunes have been little improved in Europe. Thursday night’s draw at Fenerbahce means United have drawn each of their three Europa League games this season.
For the second successive season, United have endured a large number of injury problems and Ten Hag is currently unable to call upon Kobbie Mainoo, Luke Shaw, Leny Yoro, Harry Maguire, Tyrell Malacia and Mason Mount. Antony added to the club’s woes after picking up an injury in Turkey on Thursday.
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of facing West Ham, Ten Hag said injuries are a big part of his side’s struggle for results this season.
“Yeah, that holds us back in our levels, and also in our position in the league. When you don’t have the players available, you can’t line up the best team, and that is what’s holding us back in this moment.
“We need more players available often and then we have to work all together on this point. That is the players, the coaching staff, all the other staff – we have to do better to get more available players, because we know when we have them, we are a really tough team to play [against]. When we have them, we can be really successful, and that is what we have shown over the last couple of months.”
Ten Hag did provide a positive update on Bruno Fernandes and Jonny Evans ahead of the trip to the London Stadium, with the duo expected to return.
“We have to be ready, it’s a short turnaround and we expect Bruno [Fernandes] back, and hopefully also Jonny Evans.”
