Erik ten Hag says he embraces some pundits’ suggestions about his scrutinised Manchester United side as they prepare to take on Tottenham, in one of the two Premier League matches lined up on Sunday.
The stuttering Red Devils welcome Ange Postecoglou’s side four days after their deflating 1-1 draw with FC Twente at an expectant Old Trafford.
Ten Hag was annoyed by United’s mentality and toothlessness in a Europa League opener that followed a frustrating 0-0 stalemate at Crystal Palace.
Those results, but particularly Wednesday’s performance, have increased the noise around United, but Ten Hag says he now respects critics — and even takes on board their opinions.
«First of all, respect the criticism,» the Dutchman said when asked about pundit verdicts. «There are many. You can have an opinion about football.»
«When you are in the job, you have to deal with this, but I can’t take every criticism into account.
«I don’t read, of course, all the criticism. I need to know some, and some are very good advice.»
Man United are a pale shadow of their former selves, the early promise and progress shown by the team in Ten Hag’s first season seem to have evaded the players.
Tenth-placed Spurs are ahead of United on the log by a superior goal difference as both sides boast seven points. A win for either team will only guarantee eighth position. Both teams have won twice and lost as many matches with one draw in the five matches played so far.