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Erik ten Hag happy with Jadon Sancho’s display as midfielder in Manchester United vs Southampton
Manchester United manager Erik ten Hag is happy with how Jadon Sancho performed as a number 10 in the 0-0 draw against Southampton.
The 22-year-old started and was deployed in the playmaker position by the gaffer versus the Saints on Sunday (12 March). During the match, he drifted to the left and right, depending on our attacking play. In the end, all we managed to get was a point at Old Trafford.
Speaking after the match via the club’s official website, Ten Hag was satisfied with Sancho’s display. The Dutch manager believes the winger has performed well in the playmaking role in recent weeks.
”I think he did quite well as a number ten. Like he did against Barcelona and Leicester. He was really decisive against Leicester and also today with some really good actions. One time, he was really close to the goal with a run at the defending line and a cross to Bruno almost came there. He did a good job.”
In the first half, at around the hour mark, Casemiro received a red card. As a result, that changed our system a bit, as Bruno Fernandes was the one playing alongside the Brazilian in the middle of the park. However, Scott McTominay then came on to replace Wout Weghorst just before the break.
Both teams created decent opportunities in the game. However, Southampton had plenty of decent attempts at goal. However, David de Gea was able to keep the Saints’ shots at bay.
United also created a fair few chances. Raphael Varane almost gave the Red Devils the breakthrough. However, Gavin Bazunu pulled off a brilliant save to deny the France international his first goal of the campaign.
As the match progressed, Ten Hag made a few changes. In the 73rd minute, Alejandro Garnacho replaced Sancho. The 22-year-old was once again promising.
Since the forward’s move from Borussia Dortmund in the summer of 2021, he has struggled to find form. However, after being on the sidelines for a considerable period, the England international seems to have found his feet.
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It remains to be seen whether, in the coming months, the 22-year-old will be converted to a number 10. For now, the gaffer’s decision to play the forward out of position is evidently working.
