Ten Hag ready to utilise Jadon Sancho in different role in Antony’s absence

Erik ten Hag liked what he saw of Jadon Sanco on the right flank last night.

The manager was forced into an early substitution with Marcus Rashford replacing Antony, who had sustained an injury after a tackle from Trevoh Chalobah. Post-match, Ten Hag admitted the Brazlian’s problem was serious, meaning he is likely to miss the FA Cup final next Saturday.

In Antony’s absence, Sancho switched to the right wing and Rashford took his usual position on the left. The 23-year-old provided a key assist to Anthony Martial to double Manchester United’s lead over Chelsea and send them on their way to clinching Champions League qualification.

Even aside from the contribution, Sancho looked significantly more confident on the right, where he was often deployed at Borussia Dortmund, and offered a standout performance in the Reds’ convincing win.

Ten Hag on Sancho

Ten Hag was later quizzed on the tactical change and admitted he was impressed with the Englishman’s display.

He said (via the Man Utd website): “He did very well on the right side, and I think he played a very good game today. And I think Jadon Sancho was one of the players who [has made good] progress in this season. And there were many players in our squad who made good progress. I think it’s a good base to build further on.”

On which position Sancho prefers, Ten Hag added: “He can do both, but I think he prefers to play on the left. But we have seen today he is very good on the right as well.”

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