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Former Manchester United star Owen Hargreaves has pinpointed Erik ten Hag’s substitutions and especially the decision to take off Bruno Fernandes as the primary reason behind the club’s loss at the hands of Brighton and Hove Albion.
United were beaten 2-1 by Brighton at the Amex Stadium early on Saturday.
Danny Welbeck opened the scoring for his side but their advantage was cancelled out in the second half by Amad Diallo.
It seemed like both sides would have to settle for a draw but a moment of defensive lapse from United saw Joao Pedro head the ball in at the death.
There were some strange tactical decisions by Ten Hag that certainly didn’t do United any favours against the Seagulls, with Fernandes’ substitution being one of them.
The Red Devils’ skipper was taken off while the team were on the hunt for the leader, much to the dismay of supporters and even the player himself, whose facial expression made no secret of his feelings.
Speaking on Premier League Productions, Hargreaves criticised Ten Hag’s changes.
The former midfielder said, “I think they [Man United] lost it on the subs.”
“Bruno Fernandes’ face was unbelievable; he was thinking, “You’re taking me off?”. Then he took Harry Maguire off, which affected the shape.”
Hargreaves added, “The subs from Hurzeler were positive, even at a point when most people thought the game was over.”
By no means was Fernandes having a great performance but as Hargreaves alluded, one cannot help but think United would have been best served by keeping him on the pitch considering the level of his creative output.
United return to action next weekend when they face Liverpool at Old Trafford.
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2024-08-24 16:15:55
