In the press conference ahead of the third round of the FA Cup, which will be played against Everton on Friday at 21:00, Erik ten Hag answered questions about the series so far and Friday’s match.
For me, the cup has always been special, and I know that in the FA Cup there are higher expectations and higher standards than in Holland.
About the goalkeeper position and the background of the new signings
Earlier on Thursday, it became clear that United would bring in a new goalkeeper, then Martin Dubravka’s loan ended in the new year, because Newcastle brought the Slovak back.
– Martin Dubravka is back and we need three goalkeepers with experience, we have some youngsters and they are in good shape, but we have a lot of matches, so we need three goalkeepers who are good in training, but also when there are problems you need experience in goals to achieve goals and what one wants to achieve.
– I’m very happy with David, he’s very clear, he’s our number one, he’s very good, but something can always happen with David too, so you have to be ready for that so you don’t just have one.
– Last year I had a situation with Ajax where three goalkeepers were injured, which is not something you want in a position where you play for trophies and then you have to put a young goalkeeper. You can’t accept that, it spoils the season. This is what you should be prepared for.
On Rashford and what he can do for the team
– First and foremost, it is important to always stay focused, regardless of whether you are in the match or not, and focus on scoring goals. A player like Marcos, but also Anthony Martial, is 100% mentally focused, has the skills and only needs a moment to change the game in a positive direction. If he improves his skills, he will score more goals and contribute to a successful season.
About the season so far and future matches
Ten Hag is careful not to expect rewards or to look too far ahead.
– Let’s say we’re in a good position, we’re where we want to be, but we still take it every game, we take part in a lot of competitions and focus from game to game and don’t think too much about the future, said the Dutchman.
About injuries in the team
The manager also explained in more detail about Martial’s situation.
– He’s ready, but it’s different. He didn’t play much in the first half of the season so we have to bring him back to 90 minutes carefully.
– He can play for 90 minutes, but if we use him in several consecutive matches, we have to protect him so that he has the strength and energy to play more than 90 minutes every three days.
Ten Hag also answered questions about Donny van de Beek’s injury, but has not been able to provide an update yet as they are still investigating.
Read what the physiotherapist had to say about Van de Beek’s injury.
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