Erik ten Hag reveals two reasons why Christian Eriksen starts for Man United vs Southampton

Erik ten Hag has revealed two reasons why Christian Eriksen starts for Manchester United against Southampton on Saturday afternoon.

The Reds have struggled at the beginning of the season, with just one Premier League win from their first three matches.

A 3-0 defeat to rivals Liverpool came after a last-minute loss to Brighton. While the opening win over Fulham offered some promise, Erik ten Hag’s team still has plenty to address.

The international break provided Ten Hag and his staff a chance to reevaluate and make adjustments.

United are gearing up for their Premier League clash against Southampton on Saturday afternoon, and Ten Hag has made changes to his team.

Ten Hag reveals two reasons why Eriksen starts

The Dutch manager has opted to start Amad Diallo and Christian Eriksen in place of Alejandro Garnacho and Casemiro for the trip to the south coast on Saturday afternoon.

Amad coming back into the team was expected, but many were surprised with the inclusion of Eriksen, who has yet to start a game this season.

United’s pressing structure so far this season does not seem to suit the Danish international. Still, after Casemiro’s poor display against Liverpool, he has come into the engine room alongside Kobbie Mainoo.

Manuel Ugarte is not yet ready to start after moving from Paris Saint-Germain, as he returned to Carrington later than the rest of the squad following his participation with Uruguay over the international break.

Speaking to club media about the changes before the game, Ten Hag explained why Eriksen is in the lineup.

The United boss said that his performances pre-season and in training meant that he deserved a spot on the team on Saturday afternoon.

“Two changes? They both deserved to play,” said Ten Hag.

“Amad is in good form. Christian Eriksen had a good pre-season and good performances in training.

“He has earned his place and now he has to prove, but everyone has to prove.”

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