Alan Shearer, the former Newcastle United striker, has responded to Erik ten Hag’s “stupid analysis” remark after Manchester United suffered a crushing defeat against Liverpool on Sunday.
Manchester United were thoroughly outplayed in their clash against Arne Slot’s side at Old Trafford. The visitors secured three points thanks to a brace from Luis Diaz and another goal from Mohamed Salah. This defeat marks a low point in the Red Devils' season, which started off poorly with two losses in their last two Premier League matches following an opening weekend victory over Fulham.
Pressure mounts on Ten Hag
Erik ten Hag is once again under pressure after ending last term with an FA Cup final victory over Manchester City. His tactics and his team's performances have come under intense scrutiny recently.
Shearer had previously criticised Man Utd forward Marcus Rashford on Match of the Day last week. In response, Ten Hag defended his player before the match against Liverpool. However, Rashford was ineffective throughout Sunday's game against Liverpool, leading many to believe that Shearer may have been correct in his initial criticism.’
Erik ten Hag, Manchester United manager, said:
“Everyone gets criticism from you guys, it doesn’t matter what we are doing, if we are winning or if we are losing. In this case, it was stupid analysis from the pundit.”
Shearer responds to Ten Hag’s comments
When asked about Ten Hag’s comments regarding his analysis of Rashford's performance, Shearer responded during The Rest is Football podcast:
Alan Shearer, the former Newcastle striker, said:
“In his press conference he said he didn’t agree with the analysis and said it was “stupid”. But look at their performance today then see. I totally get why. He’s trying to protect his player, he couldn’t see anything different, but I think the truth be known at Man United.
“Nothing much has changed over the summer, has it? Certainly, in the performances that we’ve seen. They got absolutely battered, was like men against boys. They were awful, Liverpool were brilliant.”
Shearer also suggested that Liverpool already have more of an identity under Arne Slot within weeks than Man Utd has managed to establish in several years under Ten Hag. The recent events highlight the mounting pressure on Erik ten Hag and Manchester United as they struggle early this season. Alan Shearer's comments add fuel to this fire as fans and critics alike question whether changes need to be made at Old Trafford.
