Manchester United staff reject players’ request for day off after Fulham defeat

Manchester United's Dutch manager Erik ten Hag reacts during during the English Premier League football match between Manchester United and Fulham at Old Trafford in Manchester, north west England, on February 24, 2024. (Photo by Darren Staples / AFP) / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or 'live' services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No video emulation. Social media in-match use limited to 120 images. An additional 40 images may be used in extra time. No use in betting publications, games or single club/league/player publications. /

A number of Manchester United players tried to get out of training following Saturday’s defeat to Fulham. It’s pleasing to hear that the request was denied by coaching staff.

After such a dismal performance on Saturday, it beggars belief that any of the players felt they warranted a day off. United deserved to be beat by a Fulham side that came to Old Trafford with a poor away record.

United were without a number of key players, including Rasmus Hojlund and Luke Shaw.

Calvin Bassey gave Fulham the lead in the 65th minute when he hit home from close range.

The Reds suddenly got going and scored through Harry Maguire, only for Alex Iwobi to secure all three points for Fulham in the 97th minute.

According to The Guardian, in the immediate aftermath of the defeat several United players complained to coaching staff that they wanted Sunday off.

Ten Hag likes his squad to come into Carrington after a matchday for warm-downs and video analysis. Some members of the squad felt, in amongst a hectic run of games, they needed a day off.

Bless their cotton socks.

This reportedly left coaching staff surprised – but should it?

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