Erik ten Hag explains tactical change and two Man United things he expects

Erik ten Hag has explained his surprise tactical change as Manchester United face Newcastle on Saturday evening.

Manchester United return to Premier League action as they travel to face Newcastle United in the Premier League.

Erik ten Hag‘s men have won five of their last six games in the competition, most recently defeating Everton 3-0 last weekend as they look to climb back into the Champions League spots in the table.

Read More: Three standout Man United U18 players vs Wolves as perfect run continues

“Tactical and rotation part of it,” Ten Hag told TNT Sports ahead of the game when asked why he was starting Luke Shaw at centre-back.

“Also, Luke, as a centre-half has to run less than full-back, but also tactical on that side.”

He continued, explaining he expects two things from his side at St James’ Park: “We have to build on our performances lately and so we are in the right direction. This is a big test against Newcastle, they are difficult to play so we have to play our best.

“I expect something from my team in terms of transitions and intensity.”

Ahead of kick-off, United sit sixth in the league table, with Newcastle just one point behind in seventh place, with both teams having competed in the Champions League during midweek.

Ten Hag will want to make sure his team puts in a more sure defensive performance after they conceded three goals against Gataltasaray on Wednesday in a 3-3 draw.