Erik ten Hag has admitted he is ‘not satisfied’ with Manchester United’s league position this season but has outlined a key area that will improve results.
United currently sit fifth in the Premier League table after an abysmal start to the 2022/2023 campaign, conceding six goals in their two opening matches.
A change in tactics and players then saw the Reds go on a four-game win streak, overturning rivals Liverpool and league leaders Arsenal along the way. Then came another embarrassing result – a 6-3 loss to Manchester City. With results drastically differing as the season progresses, it’s hard to pinpoint what exactly needs to change in order to keep form and morale high amongst the squad.
Next up for Red Devils is a must-win clash against third-place Tottenham Hotspur. The game provides a chance for United to solidify their position in the top four; a win means they can go four points behind Spurs with a game in hand, as well as level on points with fourth-place Chelsea who they face on Saturday.
Strikers’ availability is key for winning games
Regarding his side’s form, Ten Hag told MUTV: “I’m a person that’s never satisfied, I’m happy to be here but I’m not satisfied with where we are, but I also know that I’m a little bit impatient.
“I know that good is not good enough, we have to do better and I see many things we can do better. But also, I see improvement, so I think when we keep going in this process, we will improve further and the results will be better.”
When questioned by a reporter on whether United’s league position could be better, he replied: “There are obviously many problems, we have to integrate many players. We still have to deal with some problems in [the] offence from the start: Cristiano Ronaldo not being available at the start of the season, Anthony Martial he has almost not been on the pitch, I think he didn’t play one full game yet.
“So, I’m sure, that will be better [than] when your two number nines are not there. When they are present and fit, in a good competitive shape, then I think results from the team will improve.”
