Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag has confirmed that Marcus Rashford and Jonny Evans were substituted as they were carrying injuries during the Manchester derby.
The Red Devils had a brilliant start to the game at the Etihad Stadium. Rashford answered his critics with a stellar strike from outside the box to beat goalkeeper Ederson in the eighth minute.
They managed to hold onto the advantage until the break, but had to work hard. Andre Onana made two fine saves to deny Phil Foden and Rodrigo from finding the equaliser.
There was also some good fortune with Erling Braut Haaland missing a sitter before the interval.
In the second half, it was all City as they pushed for the equaliser. A stunning strike from Phil Foden put them level before the Englishman grabbed a second in the 80th minute.
A Sofyan Amrabat error in stoppage time allowed Haaland to put the game to bed with an easy finish.
Speaking after the game, Ten Hag said that he would have preferred to keep Rashford and Evans for 90 minutes, but the duo had to come off as they were carrying injuries.
He said via BBC Sport: “I don’t know, they had to come off, but I preferred to keep them [Rashford and Evans] on as the organisation was very good.”
United opened the scoring with an absolute world-class goal from Rashford, but they could have easily doubled their lead. Rashford was nearly through on goal but messed it up.
The club graduate had another opportunity to score at the far post but mistimed his shot altogether.
In the second half, United were on the defensive for most parts of the derby. The fans will be disappointed with the outcome as the club are now 11 points adrift of the top four.
The Red Devils now face an uphill task to close the gap on Aston Villa for the final guaranteed Champions League spot. They may need a minor miracle to qualify for the competition next term.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com
