In spite of the club being penalised by the Football Association, Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag defended his players after they approached the referee during Sunday’s scoreless draw with Newcastle United.
Despite an FA complaint, Ten Hag supports the actions of the United players
The FA reprimanded United on Tuesday for failing to maintain control of their players when they swarmed referee Craig Pawson during the Premier League match at Old Trafford after he denied a goal by Cristiano Ronaldo.
Prior to racing to steal the ball from goalie Nick Pope and putting it into an empty net, Ronaldo believed Newcastle had been awarded a free kick. However, Pawson denied the attempt and booked the Portuguese forward as the players reacted.
Before United’s Wednesday match against Tottenham Hotspur, Ten Hag told reporters that he didn’t believe it was very strong, it wasn’t particularly aggressive but he don’t know what was actually going on the pitch since he was too far away.”
He added that he saw it again on the video… The Newcastle player’s touch on the ball was pretty clear, and their players capitalised.
The incident was one of many in which referees were criticised throughout the course of the weekend in the top division; the FA also charged Liverpool manager Juergen Klopp with inappropriate conduct for his rant at an assistant referee.
According to Ten Hag, his players serve as role models for amateur and young players, but as professionals, they should be permitted to contest officials’ rulings.
“We set a good example for young players, amateurs, and professionals. It’s also about professional football, and we have to understand our part in that,” Ten Hag continued. In the heat of the moment, it’s quite reasonable to inquire as to why, but in my opinion, you should promptly accept the official’s ruling and carry on.
Then Ten Hag Anthony Martial won’t be available to play against Tottenham, but Christian Eriksen has resumed training and may play against his old team.
With 16 points after nine games, United is in fifth place in the league, while Spurs are in third place after ten games, tied with Manchester City on 23 points.