Erik ten Hag hints at surprise Man United striker selection for Man City showdown 🙀🙀👤after injuries plague 🔴Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has suggested that surprising player could start as his number nine 9️⃣⚽🔥 in next weekend’s Community Shield showdown against Manchester City🏆 🔴Fans believe this could work out judging from his recent form while other feel spectical about this decision
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has indicated that Jadon Sancho might be used as the central striker in the upcoming Community Shield match against Manchester City, his former club.
Just a few months ago, Sancho’s relationship with Ten Hag seemed beyond repair following their fallout in September, making a permanent exit from Old Trafford appear likely. However, an unexpected reconciliation occurred, and Sancho rejoined the squad after a successful loan spell at Borussia Dortmund.
In pre-season, Sancho has played a significant role, including starting at the forefront of Ten Hag’s attack in Saturday’s 3-0 loss to Liverpool. His opportunity to lead the line has been partly due to Rasmus Hojlund’s injury, which will keep him out until mid-September, and the fact that new recruit Joshua Zirkzee has yet to debut due to his commitments with the Netherlands in Euro 2024.
Ten Hag Names Four Striker Options for Community Shield
While Zirkzee has begun training with Manchester United, Ten Hag suggested he may not be immediately thrust into the starting lineup for the Community Shield at Wembley. Instead, Sancho might continue in the number nine role. Ten Hag also mentioned Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford as potential alternatives for the striker position.
When asked about Sancho’s potential role as the central striker, Ten Hag affirmed, “Yes, otherwise we wouldn’t play him there,” as reported by the Manchester Evening News.
He elaborated, “This is a viable option in the absence of Rasmus. Joshua Zirkzee is training now, but he’s new to the squad and needs time to adapt to English football and our playing style. Jadon can also play as a striker, though he’s more effective starting wide and cutting inside. Marcus has performed this role before and remains an option, and we also have Bruno Fernandes who can operate as a forward.”
Sancho’s Performance Against Liverpool
Against Liverpool, Sancho played 73 minutes before being substituted for Sam Mather. His impact in attack was limited, registering only one off-target shot. However, he was slightly more effective in a playmaking role, creating two chances and completing 22 of his 23 passes. Despite his efforts, Manchester United’s finishing was subpar throughout the match.
Following the heavy defeat, Ten Hag provided updates on the fitness of several players, with defensive issues compounding United’s woes. They are also dealing with a three-month absence of new signing Leny Yoro due to a metatarsal fracture.
Manchester City, United’s Community Shield opponents, are also facing concerns over one of their key players ahead of the August 10 clash at Wembley.
