Erik ten Hag reveals new plans for Jadon Sancho after giving the Man United boss plenty to think about in pre-season defeat to Liverpool
- Jadon Sancho led the attack for Man United in their friendly against Liverpool
- The Red Devils lost 3-0, with Sancho struggling to have much of an impact
- Erik ten Hag believes he has what it takes to continue playing in this position
Jadon Sancho could lead Manchester United’s attacking line and start the season as number 9, according to manager Erik ten Hag.
United flew back to England straight after a 3-0 defeat to Liverpool in South Carolina to conclude both teams’ preparations in the US after goals from Fabio Carvalho, Curtis Jones and Kostas Tsimikas.
United created plenty of chances but lacked a striker who could finish the ball.
With the Community Shield against Manchester City just five days away – with Rasmus Hojlund injured and summer signing Joshua Zirkzee still trying to regain match fitness – Ten Hag was asked if Sancho could start the season as a makeshift No.9.
The Dutchman said: That’s what we can do if we don’t have Rasmus’ availability. Of course Joshua Zirkzee comes in.
Jadon Sancho started for Man United in Saturday’s friendly against Liverpool
According to coach Erik ten Hag, Sancho can take charge and start the season as number 9
‘He has started training. But he hasn’t been training for very long, so it will take time and he has to get used to English football and our way of playing.
‘Jadon can of course play as a striker. He can also play on the wings, but he could be a good option.’
Young striker Ethan Wheatley is of course an option for Ten Hag and he works closely with new coach Ruud van Nistelrooy.
“He was probably one of the best strikers we’ve ever had at the club. From the moment he arrived I’ve tried to assess him,” he said this week.
However, one cannot help but feel that United are not good enough in attack in the new season.
