Erik ten Hag: Man United fans are understanding of situation

Erik ten Hag is confident he still has the understanding of supporters after Manchester United’s poor run of form continued with defeat to Arsenal.

United were beaten 1-0 by Premier League title chasers Arsenal at Old Trafford on Sunday in a game that saw them create little.

While United did well to restrict Arsenal’s chances, they had just two shots on target themselves – long-rangers from Casemiro and Antony.

The Red Devils have had to contend with a number of injury problems this season, not least against Arsenal with a makeshift defence fielded.

And for that reason, Ten Hag – whose job beyond this season has been called into question – believes the fanbase remain supportive.

“They understand where we are and where this club is,” he told Sky Sports. “We have so many injuries in key areas.

“The fans don’t get what they deserve, but they understand this and that is why they are behind the team.

“I think that is why they are with us we are united. Hopefully we can pay them back in the future.”

Ten Hag pointed out that United were without seven possible starters, forcing him to field veteran Jonny Evans alongside Casemiro at centre-back.

Casemiro was at fault for Arsenal’s goal as he was slow getting back up the field, meaning Havertz was onside before teeing up Trossard.

Ten Hag, though, was not willing to point the finger of blame at the underperforming midfielder.

“In that situation he is a midfielder playing in that position and making a small mistake, but it has hard consequences,” he said.

“Before that, in possession we could have done better in others positions. It’s details.”

9 – This is Manchester United’s ninth defeat of this season at Old Trafford in all competitions – they have never lost more at home in a single campaign in their history (also 9 in 1920-21, 1930-31, 1933-34, 1962-63, and 1973-74). Bleak. pic.twitter.com/HnDboiJckF

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) May 12, 2024

Eighth-placed United have won just one of their past eight league matches in a run that includes a 4-0 thumping at Crystal Palace earlier in the week.

The Red Devils have lost 19 games in all competitions this season, which is their most since 1977-78 when also losing 19.

Asked if he believes he is the man to turn things around, Ten Hag said: “I have no doubt about this.

“Mostly, this team has the right spirit and they execute the rules and principles of the game even if they have to adapt in their positions.

“I can only be happy and it is a big compliment for this team that they executed all that they could and they were fighting.”