Man Utd boss Erik ten Hag calls out his own players with strong three-word demand

Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag has summarised his side’s struggles in three words: ‘Not scoring goals’.

The Dutchman has come under immense criticism already this season, with his side’s 1-1 draw with FC Twente in the Europa League on Wednesday night highlighting some of their biggest problems at present.

The Red Devils have shown glimpses of promise on some occasions but lack consistency, both defensively and in the final third. Speaking ahead of his side’s clash with Tottenham this weekend, Ten Hag feels that goal-scoring is the biggest issue for his team at the moment.

Asked what has gone wrong over the past two games following the draw with FC Twente and stalemate with Crystal Palace, he said: “Not scoring goals. That is the problem, the key area is to score more goals as a team.

“We have players across the team who have the ability to score, that is clear, you see all the opportunities we are creating but we are not scoring enough.”

Ten Hag went on to speak about summer signing Joshua Zirkzee and how he could solve his side’s problems in front of goal. Quizzed on whether he feels the ex-Bologna star can be ‘prolific’, the former Ajax manager said: “Yes I do.

“He is young, you see his capabilities, very good link-up player, he is creative. He has his moments. The goal [vs Fulham] was a great action and finish. But in that area, he can definitely improve. He has some very good attributes.”

United will need to improve in the final third if they are to secure their third Premier League victory of the season this weekend when they host Tottenham, who head to Old Trafford on the back of a convincing 3-1 over Brentford.

If Ten Hag’s side are to get back to winning ways then they will need skipper Bruno Fernandes to return to form. The Portugal international’s performances have left plenty to be desired in recent weeks, but he retains the faith of his manager.

“He is capable and has proven this so many years in the Premier League that he can create many chances,” Ten Hag explained. “I am convinced this season he will come and find his form. He is already creating chances but he will make final passes and score goals, 100 per cent.”