Erik ten Hag offers European Super League verdict plus Man Utd injury latest

Manchester United look to be heading in the right direction as of late, despite a disappointing performance against Leeds United midweek. The Red Devils sit only two points from second place in the Premier League table and have lost only one match since November.

Erik ten Hag has managed to rejuvenate a struggling United side and has unlocked the key to Marcus Rashford’s form, while also bringing in some excellent signings in Casemiro and Lisandro Martinez.

Ahead of a second clash with the Whites this weekend, we take a look at the latest news headlines...

European Super League response

The European Super League could be set for a revamped format which would see 60-80 teams competing in a ‘multi-divisional competition’. The controversial proposals were slammed with plenty of criticism when they were put forward in 2021, though the original plans would have seen the ‘Big Six’ clubs essentially ditch the Premier League.

With their latest proposals revealed this week, Ten Hag has given his verdict. Speaking in a press conference, the Dutchman said: “I’m aware of the dynamic of what’s going on but if I see they’re coming up with new ideas I have to have a look at it and I will make an opinion. So I’m not aware because we are playing so many games in this moment.

“We have to develop this team, we have some problems with new players to bring in, so that’s where my focus point is, therefore I need all my energy. About new European competitions; other people at the club will have a look at it and inform me if the time is there and we have to make decisions, but the decision is up to the club.

“I think the current structure is good but there will always be initiatives to make it better, to make the football better and that is what life is; people always want to construct better, which is a good thing because if it is in favour of the football, it is always good.”

Injury latest

United head to Elland Road this weekend with a continued long list of absentees. The Red Devils were without Casemiro, Antony, Anthony Martial and Scott McTominay for Wednesday’s meeting with Leeds United and they will all remain sidelined, alongside Donny van de Beek and Christian Eriksen.

Speaking on their injuries, Erik ten Hag said: “With the injuries, if you see Christian Eriksen, you can’t see that as an impact from the tough season, but it definitely is a tough season with the World Cup in between and a lot of overload for the players.“That process is already longer term, going on that the load on the players is too much.”

For a full update on United injury news, see here.