Noah Rosenstein
Updated on: October 13, 2024 7:39 am GMT
Erik ten Hag Defends Decision to Bench Rashford Ahead of Crystal Palace Clash
Manchester United’s manager, Erik ten Hag, has found himself at the center of controversy after his decision to bench star forward Marcus Rashford during the team’s disappointing 0-0 draw against Crystal Palace. Despite Rashford’s impressive form, scoring three goals in his last two games, Ten Hag insists his choice was purely about squad rotation rather than a response to off-the-field issues.
Rashford’s Recent Performance
Rashford, who had recently regained his scoring touch after a difficult previous season, was benched for the match at Selhurst Park. This decision raised eyebrows, especially among pundits like Jamie Redknapp, who questioned Ten Hag’s rationale. Redknapp stated, “You don’t drop a player that has scored two in midweek and against Southampton. It feels like something has gone untoward.”
Ten Hag responded to the criticism by emphasizing the need for rotation within the squad. “It is not a difficult decision; we have to rotate. We have so many games,” he said. The United boss also noted the need to give opportunities to other players like Alejandro Garnacho, who has been performing well off the bench.
*Erik ten Hag defends his decision to bench Marcus Rashford during the match against Crystal Palace.*
Ten Hag’s Quotes on Rashford’s Lifestyle
In the lead-up to the match, Ten Hag made headlines by discussing Rashford’s lifestyle and its impact on his performance. He said, “When your lifestyle is not right, you can’t perform at the level we expect. You don’t get the right levels if you don’t have a good and disciplined life away from Carrington.” This comment sparked speculation about Rashford’s lifestyle choices, suggesting that they may have influenced his placing on the bench.
“Already there is speculation [about the reason for Rashford’s omission],” Ten Hag said after the game. “As a person, you are not okay if you bring such speculation when you don’t know the situation. I am very happy with Marcus. He’s scoring at the moment.”
Redknapp remained skeptical, suggesting that such comments might not be beneficial for the players. He recalled how managers like Sir Alex Ferguson would never air a player’s supposed shortcomings in public. “It’s unusual for a manager to come out and almost out a player by talking about their lifestyle,” he remarked.
Rashford’s Career Recovery
Ten Hag believes that Rashford is on an upward trajectory, noting his improvement in recent weeks. Last season was tough for Rashford, where he managed just eight goals, but after scoring twice in the recent EFL Cup against Barnsley, he appears to be climbing back to his best form. “I think he is on the way back,” Ten Hag said with optimism. “He took control of it and I think he is on the way back.”
Rashford, now 26, seemed to have lost his way last season, even getting dropped for disciplinary reasons. However, Ten Hag attributes part of Rashford’s revival to the support he has received, including guidance from legendary former striker Ruud van Nistelrooy, who joined the coaching staff this summer.
### The Importance of Lifestyle in Sports
The discussion surrounding Rashford also highlights a broader conversation about lifestyle choices and their impact on athletes’ performances. Ten Hag reiterated that maintaining a disciplined and professional lifestyle is crucial for success in football.
“Every player knows, when your lifestyle is not right, you can’t perform. You have to deal with it,” Ten Hag stated. “He has to set his professionalism right; when he sets his life right, he will perform.”
### Upcoming Challenges
Looking ahead, Manchester United will need Rashford to keep up his momentum as they prepare for a packed schedule, including a Europa League match against FC Twente. Fans and analysts alike are hopeful that Rashford can maintain his form and contribute effectively to the team’s efforts.
### Conclusion
Erik ten Hag decided to sit Marcus Rashford on the bench, and this choice has made fans and experts talk a lot. However, the coach believes that switching players around and taking care of them is very important for winning. Rashford is getting better and is looking good, which gives Manchester United many reasons to feel positive about the upcoming season. As the team faces a busy schedule, they will keep their eyes on how well they play and how they behave off the field.
