“We let him down…” – Erik ten Hag provides support to criticised Man United player vs Arsenal

Erik ten Hag provided support to one Manchester United player who was criticised during the 2-1 defeat against Arsenal in Los Angeles.

The Reds continued their pre-season preparations with the game against Premier League opposition and started well.

However, both Rasmus Højlund and Leny Yoro were taken off early due to injury concerns and then Ten Hag made 10 changes at the break.

A young second-half team found it difficult against Mikel Arteta’s side, particularly 17-year-old James Scanlon, who was playing out of position at right-back.

Scanlon excelled for the youth teams last term, scoring eight goals and providing four assists. His natural position is further up the pitch as an attacker.

Playing in defence against a sharp Gabriel Martinelli was not an easy task for the teenager, who was partly responsible for the winning goal.

Read More: Manchester United 1-2 Arsenal: Five things noticed, including breakthrough performance

However, Scanlon was also quite isolated on that flank and even for the goal, it seemed like Will Fish could’ve made a block or clearance had he stepped towards the right a split-second earlier.

Despite Scanlon’s difficulties, Ten Hag was disappointed that the other United players did not help out the young player in that situation.

“It was different; it was a mixed team and the first time they had played together,” he told club media when talking about the second-half team.

“We played a player at fullback, it was the first time in his life, and then you have to play against experienced Premier League players, it’s not easy.

“I think at the second goal, we let him down a little bit, and we should help him there by giving him a little bit more support and covering.

“Overall, I think the team played a good performance, and we could have drawn this game.”

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