Erik ten Hag explains tactical change that helped Man United beat Crystal Palace

Erik ten Hag believes that one tactical change in the second half contributed to Manchester United’s win against Crystal Palace on Saturday afternoon.

It was very difficult for The Reds after Casemiro was sent off after 70 minutes in the Premier League clash.

United fought through but were also a useful position after scoring twice through Bruno Fernandes and Marcus Rashford.

Rashford’s goal came eight minutes before the Brazilian’s dismissal and heavily involved 18-year-old substitute Alejandro Garnacho.

The teenager replaced Wout Weghorst in the front line minutes before the second goal, with Rashford moving into the centre.

The United manager believed that the change in dynamic, moving from Weghorst to Garnacho, changed the game.

“I think it was difficult for the opponent when we bring in that sub because it was a different dynamic all of a sudden,” he told reporters.

“They are focusing on a player who is playing all of the time on the ball and then they have a player who is going round the back of them.

“It was great to see that the team picked up a good dynamic and the change, and took the benefit of it.”

Garnacho was later subbed off for Harry Maguire due to the situation United were in, but his impact had already been made.

The three points were crucial towards Ten Hag’s push for top four football, with United now six points clear of Tottenham Hotspur in fifth and leapfrogging Newcastle into third.

However, the Dutchman stressed the importance of silverware this season yet again.

“I am really happy with the progress we have made. I will be proud at the end of the season when we are lifting trophies,” he added. “Till that moment, we have to work hard to improve everyday.”