Erik ten Hag reveals two important Man Utd players could be back to face Tottenham

Erik ten Hag has said he is hopeful that Luke Shaw and Christian Eriksen could be back for Manchester United’s trip to Tottenham Hotspur this weekend.

The pair were among the 13 players who were not involved in the squad for Monday’s win against Wigan Athletic, with Eriksen ruled out due to illness while Shaw has missed the last three games with an injury.

But speaking after the 2-0 FA Cup win at the DW Stadium, Ten Hag said he could welcome back some players for Sunday’s Premier League encounter. 

“Some players, it is hopeful that they can be back for the weekend: Christian Eriksen, potentially Luke Shaw,” revealed the Dutchman. Harry [Maguire] maybe. Mason [Mount] I think he needs some days or a week more.”

Shaw, Maguire and Mount join Victor Lindelof, Lisandro Martinez, Tyrell Malacia, Casemiro, Sofyan Amrabat and Antony in the club’s ever-expanding injury list, while Eriksen was ill along with Amad and Anthony Martial. Jadon Sancho is the final player unavailable at present as he continues to be frozen out by United.

As a result, United had to name a bench against Wigan that comprised two goalkeepers, three players who had never played a senior game, along with Willy Kambwala, who had played once before. Hannibal and Facundo Pellsitri were the most senior outfield players selected among the substitutes.

“We have so many injuries and illnesses and still we can put out a strong side and I think we had a good team,” claimed Ten Hag. “We were confident before that we would win the game although you would not underestimate any opponent.”

Goals from Diogo Dalot and Bruno Fernandes saw United progress on Monday, in a game where the team's misfiring forwards continued to frustrate. The Red Devils produced 33 shots, 14 of which were on target, and while Ten Hag was pleased with the build-up play, he admitted the side should have scored more.

“Football is all about the win, but I think in the first half the way we played, the performance, how worked the ball, how we made our runs, the investment in the final third and we created a lot of chances, that was pleasing to see,” opined the 53-year-old. “We should have scored more but the good thing is we created the chances.”