Erik ten Hag has called on Manchester United to ‘be on the front foot’ as the club face Reading in the FA Cup fourth round this weekend.
United continue their cup campaign against Reading at Old Trafford tomorrow evening, with the Red Devils continuing to compete on four fronts this season.
Ten Hag’s team took a step closer to the Carabao Cup final with a 3-0 first leg win at Nottingham Forest in their semi-final in midweek and the Dutchman wants his team to continue their momentum tomorrow. United have won eight of their last ten games in all competitions.
Despite their status as favourites to progress, Ten Hag has warned his side not to underestimate Reading – who are under the management of former Manchester United midfielder Paul Ince – and has called on the Red Devils to be focused ahead of their clash with the Championship side.
“That is on paper. Football is never decided on paper. We have to be ready for every game,” Ten Hag said at his pre-match press conference.
”Every opponent will be touch, especially in the FA Cup. For them it is a perfect chance. We have to be on the front foot and fully focussed and full of energy.
“We want to win every game. We play every game full. Next one is the most important.”
Ten Hag provided an update on his squad and confirmed Diogo Dalot remains absent, while Luke Shaw is a doubt for the clash and will be assessed. He remains confident, however, in the full-back options available and singled out Aaron Wan-Bissaka and Tyrell Malacia for praise.
“Aaron [Wan Bissaka] and Ty [Malacia] are playing magnificently at this moment,” he said. “They were brilliant on Wednesday. The whole back four was brilliant on Wednesday.
“We are happy in the back four we have depth in the squad. That is what happens when you have 10 games in 30 days. Hopefully, it will continue after that as well.”
