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.
Man United took on Newcastle on Sunday (2 April) at St. James’ Park in the Premier League. The fixture was massive in terms of the top-four race, with the Tyneside outfit leapfrogging the Red Devils to third place in the table.
Howe’s team were on the front foot for most of the match, creating a number of chances. David de Gea kept us in the game on certain occasions with some impressive saves. Unfortunately, Joe Willock got through the guard in the 66th minute.
More Manchester United News
- Erik ten Hag explains the transfer approach Manchester United will take in the summer
- Diogo Dalot admits that Newcastle United “wanted it more” in a worrying claim
- Luke Shaw with a scathing review after Manchester United were humbled by Newcastle
The result does not bode well for the Old Trafford side. Hopefully, Ten Hag will be able to make the team bounce back in our next game versus Brentford.