Ten Hag backs Man Utd to end season with unbeaten run
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Manchester United boss Erik ten Hag will be without five key players for Thursday night’s Europa League clash with Real Betis. The Red Devils go into the game looking to seal their passage to the quarter-finals of the competition. And they’re also hoping to keep their hopes of a cup treble alive, too.
Manchester United are poised to go strong for the match in Spain, despite leading 4-1 following a straightforward victory at Old Trafford last week.
However, five key players won’t be involved as the Red Devils look to continue their fine season so far.
Donny van de Beek won’t play for United again this season, having been sidelined since a 3-0 victory over Bournemouth back in January.
There’s even some who believe he won’t pull on a red shirt ever again, having struggled since his move from Ajax three years ago.
Christian Eriksen is another long-term absentee, too.
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The Denmark international also sustained an injury in January, being forced out of an FA Cup win over Reading following a nasty tackle from Andy Carroll.
United do expect the player to feature for them again this term, however, with Ten Hag recently saying he was on schedule to return.
Anthony Martial is a third star who will be missing in Spain.
Hopes were high at the beginning of the season the France international would save them millions by shining in the No 9 role.
But though he’s had his moments, injuries have hampered him this term – with the 27-year-old missing more matches than he’s played.
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Martial hasn’t played for United since a 2-0 victory over Nottingham Forest at the beginning of last month.
And his time at United looks to be up, with Ten Hag planning to land a new centre-forward this summer amid links to Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen.
Two other players also won’t take part in the tie.
Ten Hag has confirmed Antony is ill, with the Brazil international missing out.
And the Dutchman also confirmed Alejandro Garnacho’s injury against Southampton on Sunday was ‘serious’, which doesn’t bode well for his side.
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Speaking prior to the match in Spain, Ten Hag bemoaned his side’s failure to keep players fit all season.
“I think we have only had one game when we have had the full squad available,” said the 53-year-old.
“It was against Man City at home and that is the only time in the season.
“Every other time in the season we have had a player suspended, injured or missing through illness.”
When quizzed on a demanding fixture schedule, he then proceeded to add: “We can manage.
“We have players that can recover good in between games.
“We are in contact with medical and performance about what players can handle. We can mix it.
“When we are going into the final stages of the season, we can bring our best team.”
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