Manchester United manager Erik Ten Hag has come to the defence of two Manchester United players in his latest pre-match press conference where questions on their performances for the club so far in the 2024/2025 season were raised.
Erik ten Hag has expressed confidence in Manchester United’s summer signing Joshua Zirkzee, predicting the 23-year-old will soon find his scoring touch despite netting just once since joining from Bologna.
While Zirkzee’s goal return has been modest, Ten Hag is pleased with the Dutch striker’s overall attacking contributions. ‘His abilities are there, and I’m happy with his performances,’ the United boss remarked.
Ten Hag also leapt to the defence of captain Bruno Fernandes, who has struggled to make an impact this season, providing just one assist in five Premier League appearances. ‘Bruno has always delivered for this club, and I have no doubt he will again,’ Ten Hag assured.
The Manchester United manager’s vote of confidence comes as Fernandes faces growing scrutiny over his form. However, Ten Hag remains convinced that his skipper will rediscover his creative spark and drive the team forward.
What did Ten Hag say about Joshua Zirkzee’s performance so far?
Speaking on the performance of the newly signed Joshua Zirkee, head coach of Man United, Erik Ten Hag stated, “Yes I do think he can become a prolific goalscorer for United. Sure, he is young. We see his great abilities. He is a very good link-up player, as you say, he is creative. He is creating chances but be fair, also he has his moments towards the goal from the opposition. I think it was a great action he had against FC Twente and a great finish he had, top save from the keeper but in that area he can definitely improve. We know he has some very good attributes, and he has to improve, and he needs our support on how to improve.”
What did Ten Hag say about Bruno Fernandes’s performance for Man United
Answering the question of reporters about the performance of Man United’s captain Bruno Fernandes, Erik Ten Hag in his pre-match press conference stated, “I think the team brings him in a situation. I think he is capable, I think he has proven this so many years already in the Premier League that he can create many chances and I am convinced he will not do differently this season. He will come on this point and find his form, he will make final passes and score goals, 100%. And it’s just a matter of time”.
Read the Latest Sports News and get fresh updates on X and Facebook