Man Utd news LIVE: Enzo Maresca aims Erik ten Hag dig as untold Ronaldo row story emerges

Matthijs de Ligt has spoken out about how Manchester United players have tried to ‘minimise’ the criticism they have been subjected to over the international break.

The defender endured a tricky time away with the Netherlands but returned to England in style by opening his account for the Red Devils.

Asked about how United have dealt with criticism since their 3-0 defeat to Liverpool, De Ligt explained: “You try to minimise it as much as possible.

“Obviously you hear the things, not everything, you try to minimise that also. But you have to stay strong, you have to be yourself and I think today we did.”

Former Liverpool star Danny Murphy has sang the praises of Marcus Rashford.

The United star has endured a tricky time at Old Trafford but played a key role in his side’s 3-0 win over Southampton yesterday, ending his goal drought in style.

Speaking on Match of the Day about Rashford’s display, Murphy said: “I thought Manchester United and himself [Rashford] started poorly, and that was due to Southampton being really good in the first 20 to 30 minutes.

“But once they recovered from that good spell of pressure from Southampton, he grew into the game and looked more like the Rashford we know, causing them problems with his pace and his dynamism.

“It’s his best performance of the season. I think that when he doesn’t think and he’s really direct, he’s confident in his play and that makes such a difference. We know he’s got that explosive pace and that ability to scare.”

Barcelona sporting director Deco has insisted that Frenkie de Jong will not leave the Catalan giants, despite his injury woes.

The Netherlands international has been heavily linked with a move to the Premier League in recent months, with Manchester United among his suitors.

However, Deco has spoken about how he does not intend on selling De Jong.

He explained: “I don’t understand everything that is said about Frenkie de Jong. He has a contract with Barcelona and we are very happy with him. The player will decide on the contract at the right time, There’s no problem. We love him very much.”

Tim Sherwood believes that Erik ten Hag needs to win his next two matches to avoid the sack, despite Manchester United’s recent win over Southampton.

The Red Devils face Crystal Palace next weekend before hosting Tottenham, and Sherwood has talked up the importance of both matches.

He told OLBG: “Erik ten Hag could be in big trouble in a matter of weeks, but he can also see these fixtures as a chance to get three wins on the board and get confidence flowing.

“Having said that, If they don’t win all three of these games, I think the pressure will start ramping up towards that October international break.”

Erik ten Hag was pleased with the impact Manuel Ugarte made on his debut.

The summer signing was substituted on in place of Christian Eriksen in the 73rd minute and made hit the ground running by making an important challenge and a series of neat passes.

Speaking about Ugarte, his manager said: “It’s good that we could bring him and he shows us straight what he brings.

“Control in midfield, good interceptions, very aggressive but also on the ball composed. He keeps the game going, links us back and forward so I think the first impressions were very good.”

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca aimed a subtle dig at Erik ten Hag after his side’s 1-0 win over Bournemouth on Sunday night.

Jadon Sancho made a positive impact on his Blues’ debut, assisting Christopher Nkunku late on and impressing with his energy down the left.

Speaking after the game, Maresca hinted that Sancho will thrive as he will have the support he required.

The Chelsea manager said: “Christo [Nkunku] was very good. We decided to use Christo as a No 9 as he is good in the box. I have the feeling Jadon needs love.”

Manchester United have an injury crisis in defence ahead of their clash with Barnsley on Tuesday night.

Lisandro Martinez was withdrawn against Southampton after looking to have suffered a calf problem, with Matthijs de Ligt also being subbed off – though Erik ten Hag insists that the latter was removed due to cramp.

Harry Maguire came on in place of Martinez but quickly picked up a knock as well, with Noussair Mazraoui being substituted off and heading straight down the tunnel in the 74th minute.

With Leny Yoro, Victor Lindelof and Tyrell Malacia also injured, Diogo Dalot and Jonny Evans are the only two fully fit defenders at the Theatre of Dreams as it stands.