Erik ten Hag says four Man United players ‘deserved’ their chance vs Crystal Palace

Manchester United won 3-0 against Crystal Palace in the Carabao Cup and manager Erik ten Hag was pleased with the performance.

It was United’s finest display so far this season after a difficult spell of results in recent weeks. Alejandro Garnacho, Casemiro and Anthony Martial scored the goals to top off a solid showing.

There were several young players who played in the game. Ten Hag started the game with Facundo Pellistri and Garnacho on the flanks for the first time and Hannibal Mejbri started his second game in a row after a positive midfield display against Burnley.

Later in the second half, Dan Gore was gifted the opportunity to make his first-team debut at Old Trafford on his 19th birthday.

All four academy talents enjoyed successful games and Ten Hag has explained why they deserved their chance to play in the third-round clash.

“We had many young players on the pitch and you see they are progressing,” he stated on Sky Sports.

“With me, you don’t just get the opportunity, you have to deserve it. Those players who were coming on – Hannibal, Garnacho, Pellistri, Dan Gore – they deserve it and they have to show it every day in training.

“Then you get an opportunity and have to take it.”

New signing Sofyan Amrabat also made a belated full debut for the Old Trafford club after recovering from a back injury last week. He played at left-back in the absence of Sergio Reguilon.

“I know he’s capable of that,” added Ten Hag. “He’s a player who gives the team what they need and makes a contribution.

“He has quality as well as energy and the dynamic he brings.”