Fulham defeated United 2-1 at Old Trafford this past weekend, their first home victory in over 20 years, leaving United in sixth place, eight points behind fourth-place Aston Villa.
Manager Erik ten Hag stated on Tuesday that despite their recent shocking home loss to Fulham, Manchester United has no intention of straying from their usual strategy when they play Nottingham Forest away in the FA Cup’s fifth round on Wednesday.
Last season, United lost to rivals Manchester City 2-1 at Wembley in the FA Cup final.
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“We were unbeaten in January and February and we lost one game. It was a poor performance and defeat, we are aware,” Ten Hag told reporters.
“We want to stay in every competition. We have to win tomorrow. It doesn’t change our approach — that is for every game.
“I look at today, we work on the team development and try to win every game. We look forward to the longer-term.”
When it came to young players like Omari Forson, Alejandro Garnacho, and Kobbie Mainoo, the Dutchman advised patience.
“They (youngsters) need time but they also need to know that at the top level you don’t get much time,” Ten Hag stated.
“The paradox is that. I think these players are capable, so I’ll give them some time.”
Ten Hag also supported Brazilian winger Antony, who has lately been connected to a move away from United, to struggle his way back into the starting lineup following a slump in play.
When Antony was a player for Ajax Amsterdam, Ten Hag was his coach.
“I have experience knowing he is unstoppable. Within the first ten yards, he is among the fastest players. He will act when he plays this game,” he remarked.
“I’m confident he will do it in the future… He is resilient and he is a character. He will fight back.”
Ten Hag said midfielder Casemiro was available for the Forest clash.
“He’s available. He was bleeding so he had to come off (against Fulham),” Ten Hag said.
When Antony was a player for Ajax Amsterdam, Ten Hag was his coach.
“I have experience knowing he is unstoppable. Within the first ten yards, he is among the fastest players. He will act when he plays this game,” he remarked.