Erik ten Hag names Man United’s four best trainers after certain players criticised “intensity”

Erik ten Hag has named the four players who set the standard in Manchester United training shortly after reports of criticism emerged over his approach.

The Dutch manager is in his second season in charge at United, and this term has been much more difficult for him than the last.

The Reds have suffered a number of injuries this season, with some of the blame being placed on Ten Hag’s approach to games and training.

It was reported by the Manchester Evening News last week that a minority of the squad are concerned about the running demands from the manager, and that they are of the belief that the intensity is too taxing after their 62-game campaign last season.

Following on from this, Ten Hag spoke to former United defender Rio Ferdinand on TNT Sports about the work done at Carrington and those who set the standard on the training pitch.

When Ferdinand asked about those standard setters, Ten Hag answered, “Raphael Varane, Casemiro, Bruno Fernandes, and Lisandro Martinez.”

He added: “Licha, when he is out on the training pitch, he’s always on the front foot. They set the tone so that others, they can hang on.”

Those four experienced players were key to the success which United had last season, after finishing third in the Premier League and winning the Carabao Cup.

This term, Martínez and Casemiro have failed to recreate that impact for different reasons. The Argentine has been out injured for the majority of the season, whilst the midfielder has failed to find similar levels in a difficult midfield setup.

Varane has managed to become an important player after initial difficulties earlier this season. Bruno Fernandes has been consistent in the starting team but not as consistent in terms of performances.