Luton Town star Andros Townsend has delivered a surprise verdict on Manchester United after facing them prior to the international break, when the Reds beat the Premier League newcomers by a single goal to nil.
Erik ten Hag’s side claimed three points after Victor Lindelof found the back of the net just before the half-hour mark.
United could have done more in attack – in terms of being more clinical – but we were hard to break down. It wasn’t a performance we can afford to be too critical of after clinching all three points.
However, Townsend has given his two cents in an interview with BBC Radio 5 and he poured cold water on suggestions that United aren’t a well-coached outfit.
Townsend said (via Daily Mail): “Extremely difficult. They are difficult. We were able to defend against them well but similar to Liverpool they just find a way. Honestly, it was an extremely tough game.
“There was rotation all over the pitch. We were well-drilled and confident as we had just got a point against Liverpool the week before, we had a game plan to press high up the pitch and force turnovers, United didn’t really give us anything.”
Townsend also hailed Bruno Fernandes after their performances against Luton, adding: “Bruno Fernandes drifts out to the outside left position, links up with [Sergio] Reguilon, they get a few crosses that way,’ he said. ‘[Diogo] Dalot comes to midfield creating an overload and we did limit them to very few chances and defended well.
“Unfortunately, we switched off at one set piece and that was our whole game plan done.”
United have to travel to Everton this week but we’ve got a number of crucial fixtures coming up, with Ten Hag needing maximum effort from his squad.
Sean Dyche’s men will be looking to respond after their 10 point deduction in the Premier League.
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