Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag provided an update on Jadon Sancho. The manager has claimed that the 22-year-old winger is dealing with physical and mental problems while he trains away from the team. Sancho had previously been practicing individually in the Netherlands.
When asked directly if Sancho was injured or just out of shape, ten Hag said the youngster “wasn’t fit enough.” The Dutchman went on to talk about how players sometimes need a break from the action.
Ten Hag: “Gamers are not robots”
“I think any high-level athlete, in soccer but also in any sport, sometimes it’s good to get away from where you are every day to get a new vibe, to get experience,” ten Hag said. “People have a different approach and can give you the right nudge to get you back on track.”
“Footballers are not robots. No one is the same and everyone needs a different approach and we thought, in cooperation with Jadon, it was the best option.”
Ten Hag has United playing well despite Sancho’s absence
Sancho has not played for United since October 22. He was on the bench the following week, but never entered the fray. The team’s attacking options have been reduced with the absence of Sancho. Superstar Cristiano Ronaldo left the club permanently in November.
Despite a lack of firepower up front, the Red Devils have managed to win seven of their last eight games. However, ten Hag is more than ready to reintroduce Sancho to the team when he is fit.
“I would like to have Jadon back as soon as possible,” proclaimed the coach. “But also in this, I cannot force this process. So I’ll do everything in my power, but some processes can’t be forced. I also have to show patience. Although I don’t have patience for the sake of it, you’re right, we lack opportunities on the front line.”
“But the good thing is that he’s back in Carrington. So he’s making progress, so he’s ready for the next step.”
Manchester United take on Everton in an FA Cup clash on Friday. They have a Carabao Cup game on Tuesday before resuming Premier League play against cross-town rivals City on January 14.
PHOTO: IMAGO/PA Images
