Gary Neville slams Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez substitutions in Manchester United vs Newcastle United
Manchester United icon Gary Neville criticised Erik ten Hag for substituting Raphael Varane and Lisandro Martinez in the match against Newcastle United.
The French and Argentine centre-backs were both hauled off in the 83rd minute of the games. Subsequently, the Magpies doubled their lead and secured the three points in a 2-0 win over the Red Devils.
Speaking via Manchester Evening News after Callum Wilson scored the second goal, Neville, who spent his entire playing career at the Old Trafford side, felt the Dutch manager made a tactical error with his changes.
“Once those changes were made this was the most predictable outcome. Manchester United just had no height in there. You are better off having two with them both being centre-backs rather than three with two full-backs, you end up being really exposed.”
At the point of Varane and Martinez leaving the pitch, Man United were only losing 1-0. So, throwing the kitchen sink at the result did not seem like a wise move and it eventually backfired.
Facundo Pellistri replaced the Argentine, while Lindelof came on for the former Real Madrid defender. The Sweden international went on to form a back three with Diogo Dalot and Luke Shaw.
The apparent lack of height and physicality in the Old Trafford side’s backline evidently gave Eddie Howe’s team the advantage. The Tyneside outfit took it as Wilson found the back of the net with his header from a set piece.