The dramatic departure of Cristiano Ronaldo from Manchester United highlighted the desperate need to add depth to the Red Devils’ attack. Manager Erik ten Hag, who has taken a measured approach in rebuilding United, knows this all too well.
However, Ten Hag says he’s not ready to “burn money” and add a striker to his squad for no good reason (via The Mirror).
Value for money
Appeasement may not be high on Ten Hag’s list of priorities, but he recognizes the need to sign a striker in this month’s transfer window.
He said: “I think we have a good team when all the players are available. But with many games to come, I think it’s necessary [for a striker]. But you need one that can have an impact, otherwise you’re just burning money and not building the team and not helping you.”
United do not yet have a full complement of players to choose from, with Jadon Sancho having only just returned to training and Mason Greenwood suspended by the club.
Anthony Martial recently returned to the fold after considerable time out with injury.
Nonetheless, boss Ten Hag is confident that Anthony Martial can provide the Red Devils with the goals they need.
Manchester United have found the back of the net just 24 times in 16 league games, the second fewest in the top half of the table.
On the matter of the Frenchman, Ten Hag said: “I am very happy with his performances in many games.”
“It has a very good impact on our game. It’s really nice to work with him. If you look at the minutes he’s played and the impact he’s had so far, I think it’s really huge.
“But he is not used to coming every three days. He didn’t play for a long time and Wolves probably wasn’t his game. You can see the real impact he can have, and in the next game, I expect a better performance from him. I think he will do it, I am really convinced of that ”.
Squad depth is priority
Ten Hag also expressed his reluctance to loan players.
He said: “I know we have good players, and I know a lot of clubs will be interested in players who don’t play for us that often,” Ten Hag said.
“But we need the team. We need depth in the squad and, above all, I would say that in the first line”.
Despite their unimpressive goal tally for the season, United will be hoping to get past Bournemouth in their next league game. The Red Devils meet Bournemouth at Old Trafford tonight at 8:00 p.m.
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