As Jimmy Greaves once said, football is a funny old game, and the daily ordeals of an individual associated with Manchester United are even more amusing.
In a matter of days, Erik ten Hag has moved from 90 minutes from unemployment and incapable of the task to the possibility of a trio of wins, a montage of goals and a manager “let down” by some of his senior players.
The Dutchman assumed control of the 20-time English champions in April 2022, winning a League Cup and FA Cup during a rollercoaster two-season period.
Although his side tumbled to the most underwhelming campaign in their Premier League history during 2023-24, the 54-year-old remained in the hot seat because of the sum of variables stacked against him throughout the calendar.
Having temporarily halted a disappointing start to the current campaign, a shred of optimism has surfaced around Old Trafford, with the undeniable momentum of ten goals and back-to-back victories a welcome sight.
While he is not free from blame for his part in a tumultuous period, former French footballing legend Emmanuel Petit has criticised the behaviour of several senior players and offered support to the often-lamented manager.
“He is not the only one responsible for the situation at Manchester United”
Speaking to Top Offshore Sports Books, the World Cup-winning midfielder praised Ten Hag for his approach with younger players and emphasised that the manager is not solely to blame for the side’s downfall.
“Erik ten Hag absolutely deserves credit for giving younger players an opportunity,” the former Arsenal man said.
“You cannot say that everything Erik ten Hag has done so far has been bad – definitely not.
“He is not the only one responsible for the situation at Manchester United – He has tried to do his best in a difficult environment at Manchester United.”
“It’s a pity that the youngest players have to set the right example on the pitch.”
It has become a daily task for the former Ajax chief to fend off criticism about everything from his tactics to his fashion sense.
To have a respected voice offer supportive words will come as a welcome surprise during a difficult period. Without naming individuals, Petit focused on the senior squad members and how they had not played their part.
“I think he should be very upset about the behaviour of some of his senior players, and I think he has tried to add some discipline to the club,” he continued.
“We’ve seen that in his management.
“It’s a pity that the youngest players have to set the right example on the pitch. I want to see senior players taking some responsibility.
“We’re talking about some players that have won absolutely everything in the game; huge, huge medals, and they’re giving him nothing.
“Ten Hag has made mistakes, of course he has, but he’s been let down by some very experienced players far too often.”
Not even the most avid supporter would ignore the 54-year-olds deficiencies throughout a season that culminated in a horrific eighth-placed Premier League finish.
That said, while the manager is ultimately responsible for preparations up to match-day selection, he can not kick the football or pick and place his players.
While defeats to Brighton and Liverpool returned a sour response from the Old Trafford faithful, encouraging victories against Southampton and Barnsley have set the tone for a positive performance and result against Crystal Palace on Saturday.
Marcus Rashford can play an enormous part in the success of this side, and he is beginning to look like a man enjoying himself once more.
Credit must go to Ten Hag for his continued support and trust in the Wythenshawe man, who will aim to add to his four goal contributions at Selhurst Park.
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