MANCHESTER UNITED midfielder Christian Eriksen has praised his teammates for playing with an improved intensity during the club’s 2-1 win over Liverpool on Monday.
The Red Devils were heavily criticised for their lacklustre performance against Brentford two weeks ago which saw them suffer a humiliating 4-0 defeat.
However, Erik ten Hag’s squad were able to turn things around on Monday to earn a shock victory over bitter rivals Liverpool at Old Trafford.
After the game, new boy Eriksen was quick to applaud his teammates for the victory.
When speaking to Man Utd’s official club media, he said: “I think it [the togetherness] started after losing two games.
“This has been about coming together and getting back to the basics. We needed to show that we were better doing the basics and I think we did that today.”
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He then added: “Of course, with the South American and a bit of Spanish style there was a lot of passion towards the defensive side, but also the offensive side, we tried to do whatever we could.
“We have some very quick players and how we played today, and how Liverpool play, suited us as well.
“It’s great to play with players who want to play football and run.”
Ten Hag dropped four players to the bench ahead of United’s huge clash with Liverpool.
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Fred was replaced with Scott McTominay while Luke Shaw made way for new signing Tyrell Malacia.
But, the most noticeable absentees were Harry Maguire and Cristiano Ronaldo.
Ahead of the game, Ten Hag hinted that he could drop Maguire to trial a centre-back partnership of Lisandro Martinez and Raphael Varane.
The England international has also been linked with a move away from Old Trafford in recent weeks.
Chelsea contacted Man Utd to enquire about the availability of Maguire last week.
However, United chiefs have since blocked the defender from an exit.
Ronaldo has also been linked with a transfer.
The forward has been pushing for an exit since returning from a prolonged summer break last month.
He has been linked with various clubs including Bayern Munich, Atletico Madrid, Barcelona, Sporting Lisbon, Borussia Dortmund, Marseille and Chelsea.
But, a move has failed to materialise mainly due to his age and high wage demands.
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After the game on Monday, Ten Hag ruled out a move for both Ronaldo and Maguire.
He said: “I don’t have to mention Harry Maguire and Ronaldo – amazing players and they will play role in the future, as well, and in the short future as well.”
Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
