Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has made the bold claim that he has only been able to select his strongest squad once in the past 18 months due to a constant stream of injuries. With the news that defender Harry Maguire is a doubt for their upcoming FA Cup semi-final, Ten Hag is facing yet another crisis in an already difficult season. The manager has been without numerous key players like Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, and Jonny Evans, making it challenging to field his ideal team. Ten Hag made the statement ahead of their semi-final against Coventry, and also mentioned that the only time he was able to field his strongest squad was during a Premier League win over Manchester City in January 2023.
Ten Hag's Injury Crisis Plagues Manchester United
Erik ten Hag, manager of Manchester United, has lamented the constant stream of injuries that have decimated his squad, preventing him from selecting his strongest team for months.
Injuries Galore
In the past 18 months, Ten Hag has been forced to field weakened lineups due to a litany of injuries. Key players like Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, and Jonny Evans have missed significant time, leaving the manager short of options.
The latest blow is the uncertainty surrounding Harry Maguire's availability for the upcoming FA Cup semi-final. The defender is a doubt after suffering an injury in training.
Limited Strongest Lineups
Ten Hag revealed that he has only been able to select his strongest squad once in the past 18 months. That occasion was during the Premier League win over Manchester City in January 2023.
Challenging Season
The injuries have taken their toll on Manchester United's season. Despite showing signs of improvement under Ten Hag's leadership, the team has struggled for consistency due to the lack of available players.
Top 5 FAQs
1. Why has Erik ten Hag been unable to select his strongest squad? A: Constant stream of injuries to key players.
2. How many times has Ten Hag fielded his strongest squad in the past 18 months? A: Once, during the Premier League win over Manchester City in January 2023.
3. Which players have been injured for Manchester United? A: Raphael Varane, Luke Shaw, Jonny Evans, Harry Maguire (doubtful).
4. How has the injury crisis impacted Manchester United's season? A: Lack of consistency and diminished squad depth.
5. What has Ten Hag said about the situation? A: He has called it a "constant stream of injuries" and a "difficult season."
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