Manchester United gaffer Erik ten Hag has justified his decision of selecting Scott McTominay ahead of Casemiro.
Following the 6-3 loss against Manchester City on Sunday, the former Ajax manager’s decision to sideline the £80 million midfielder in recent weeks drew criticism.
The Dutchmen are assured that the Scottish midfielder deserves to start because of his contribution to United’s winning streak. The 25-year-old was a key player as the Red Devils’ four continued wins on the trot before facing defeat at the hands of the Citizens.
Speaking to the club’s official website, Ten Hag clarified his decision by saying:
“I said already before, it had nothing to do with Casemiro, it was all to do with Scott because, when you look at Brentford, he wasn’t in the team [and] we lose. Then [from] the day that Casemiro signed, we played six games and we won five. And, in five games, he [McTominay] played. In one game, he didn’t, and that was against [Real] Sociedad [a 1-0 loss].”
“So, for me, that was logical [to play McTominay] because it’s competition in the team. For me, it wasn’t a choice [not to play him]. He performed really well, he developed really well and it had nothing to do with Casemiro, but I’m sure Casemiro will play a really important role.”
According to reports, Casemiro will probably make his Premier League debut this weekend as Ten Hag looks to get back to winning ways against Everton.
Prior to it, United must defeat Europa League opponents Omonia and get three points. United already has games left in the tournament that they must win after losing their first group game.
This year, there is an added incentive for taking first place in your group because the round of 32 matches will pit second-place clubs against third-place Champions League participants.
All group winners will advance to the round of 16, and Ten Hag will be anxious to save United’s schedule from growing even longer by two games.
