Erik ten Hag has lauded the difference made by the substitutes against Omonia Nicosia as they recorded a 3-2 win in the Europa League.
The home side took a first-half lead through Karim Ansarifard after Tyrell Malacia was caught in possession on the halfway line.
Both Jadon Sancho and Malacia were withdrawn at the break for Marcus Rashford and Luke Shaw.
Within seven minutes of coming on, Rashford floated a curling shot past the goalkeeper to nullify Omonia’s lead.
Anthony Martial was introduced at the hour mark in place of captain Bruno Fernandes.
He found the back of the net with his first touch of the game, thanks to the ball flicked in his path by Rashford.
During the post-match interview, the manager was critical of the mistakes his side made. However, he also praised how quickly the substitute players were able to make an impact on the game.
Ten Hag said (via The Athletic), “We started well, a couple of chances, then (that) mistake cannot happen – we have to take responsibility there.
“You let the crowd get alive and we have to avoid that. But then we had a really bad 10 minutes and we have to learn from it.
“We were too static. We had to make movements in behind and that’s why we made the subs. They had a real impact. That makes the team stronger.”
The changes made by the former Ajax manager show his proactive nature and tactical smartness.
After an early goal, Omonia started playing with confidence. The crowd was backing them to play the game without any fear which helped them to thrive at times.
Ten Hag made great choices with his substitutions as United started attacking more directly rather than going sideways.
Sancho had an off day and it was important for someone like Rashford to come on.
United’s number 10 provided width on the left flank and used his pace to trouble the defenders.
He has now put himself in the driving seat to start against Everton in the next Premier League game.
Martial has just returned from an injury. Ten Hag should be cautious with him right now.
Featuring as an impact substitute might be the best role for the Frenchman as he slowly gets minutes under his belt.
