Erik ten Hag

Ten Hag: Why I had to sub Bruno and Antony

Friday 14 April 2023 13:25

In Friday afternoon's press conference, Erik ten Hag discussed the events of Manchester United's 2-2 Europa League draw with Sevilla, including the reasoning behind two of his substitutions.

Both Bruno Fernandes and Antony were withdrawn while the Reds were 2-0 up, and the Dutchman was asked why during his pre-match media briefing for Sunday's Premier League trip to Nottingham Forest.

“Bruno was throwing the ball away and he [the fourth official] said ‘the next he is off’,” replied Ten Hag.

“He saved him because the player from Sevilla [Gonzalo Montiel] did the same in the first half and got booked for it.”
Forest v United: Press conference Video

Forest v United: Press conference

Press conference | Erik ten Hag reflects on the Sevilla game, discusses injuries and looks forward to Forest away...

As for Antony, Erik admitted that the Brazilian was playing well but was also risking a red card for his tussles with Marcos Acuna in particular.

“Everything is going our way, 2-0 up, we are playing a good game, so don’t go into individual battles with your opponents, it is not necessary,” explained the manager.

“You heaten up the opponent and risk [getting] sent off. I didn’t want to take that risk.”

Acknowledging that the outcome of the game put a different complexion on his decisions, Erik amused the assembled media with his analogy for the word 'hindsight.'

“Where I am from, you call it 'looking a cow in the ass'!

“If he had been sent off, you would say to me ‘why didn’t you take him off, why did you take the risk?’”

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Also on substitutions, Erik reiterated his desire for the players to be ready to make an impact from the bench when he makes changes.

“You have to wait for your moment and when your moment is there, you have to contribute and you have to bring your performance. 

“That is what we demand.”

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