Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Anthony Martial is still injured but says he is making progress.
Speaking at the pre-match press conference ahead of United’s Europa League clash with Real Sociedad tomorrow, Ten Hag confirmed that the striker’s recovery would not be complete in time for him to take part in the match.
Ten Hag was also asked about Scott McTominay keeping his place in the squad, when many expected him to lose to new signing Casemiro.
“You see it like this, when the team is performing well, we have more than 11 players, then you stay,” the coach replied.
“The team is getting better, it’s getting better, but the players who are not in the team can come in at any time and maybe do better than the players who are.
“I know you need more than 11 players. We have a very good bench”.
The coach also spoke about the reasons behind Marcus Rashford’s resurgence.
“What I see is a happy Marcus Rashford. We worked very hard the last two months with him on different aspects. He likes it, he wants to transfer it to the court,” said Ten Hag.
“He started out happy, he comes every day, he enjoys it, he’s smiling, he has a very positive vibe, and if you put all those things together, like the way you play, and you’re happy, you’ll contribute more to the team.”
The Dutchman also had positive news about a possible extension of Rashford’s contract at Old Trafford.
“Definitely [in the long-term plans],” he said.
“I don’t think he’s out of contract and I think United are in control of the situation.”
With matches getting more intense, Ten Hag is expected to make a number of changes for tomorrow’s game, with Ronaldo potentially starting his first game since the ill-fated Brentford encounter in August.
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