Erik ten Hag is pleased with how his Manchester United side has coped with the ‘big disadvantage’ of their packed fixture schedule this season. Ten Hag’s side have done well to remain competitive across so many competitions for the majority of the season, but the heavy workload has certainly taken its toll on the playing squad in the process.
Erik ten Hag said: “It has already had an impact on the whole season, and we are doing quite well with the schedule. Not only quite well, really well. We have a big disadvantage compared to others. West Ham United have the worst schedule, but we have shown all season already that we are very strong physically and mentally.”
United’s aims for finishing in the top four not only make them a more appealing team to join and will bring a financial boost, but Ten Hag admits it would also mean a fairer fixture schedule next season.
Erik ten Hag said: “That is the great advantage. Playing in the Champions League, you have a better week.”
The defeat to Brighton leaves United with work still to do if they are to secure a top-four finish by the end of the season, which could oddly work to their advantage if they don’t lose concentration ahead of the FA Cup final against Man City on June 4.
Erik ten Hag said: “Yeah but that is what I am telling them every game and training session. You have to be ready for every game. If you want to be in four competitions, you have to be so prepared and have so much energy with a good game plan. You have to go every game again, and you can’t do it at 99 percent; it has to be 100 percent, and it has to be for the full 95 minutes. We like it, and that is why players like it, but it costs energy. That is our job, and we have to take it. Sunday we go again, and I’m sure we will be there.”
