Ten Hag launches a big defence of his not-so-Ajax 'direct' style of play at Utd

  /  autty

Erik ten Hag has defended his managerial style amidst a dismal run of form for the Dutch manager's Manchester United side.

'I came here with my philosophy, based on possession, but also to combine it with the DNA of Man United, but also with the players and their character,' the former Ajax head coach shared ahead of United's meeting with Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

'We combined it last year and we played very good football last season. I want to play from the back and we try that in every game, but like against Man City, if they are good at pressing, it's a good option to go direct.

'We want to press, then go direct, because we have the players who are very good at it.'

When asked if he was unable to replicate the style his Ajax team favoured during his decorated tenure in Amsterdam, Ten Hag demurred.

'I don't want to say that. That's too strong,' he continued. 'The intention is clear, but the execution isn't there.

'In the moment we're in, with so many changes, we can't line up the same game each time and we have to swap. We miss players in the back four and every time we have to adjust, which doesn't help the routines.'

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