Ten Hag orders: Run ’til you drop

ERIK TEN HAG has publicly ordered his Manchester United stars to follow his tactical plan against Liverpool – after they ignored his demands at Brentford.

The Dutch boss was furious United players disregarded his instructions in the 4-0 humiliation at Brentford a week ago.

And he’s demanded they run until they drop against Liverpool after being out-worked by Thomas Frank’s men in one of the darkest days in the club’s recent history.

Ten Hag was fuming at the way his stars crumbled but he believes they’re capable of pulling around a potentially disastrous season.

He said: “Naturally, we are disappointed with how our first two games have gone.

“I have made my thoughts clear on those performances to the players in private and it is clear that we have to do much better against Liverpool.

“That means following plans and making better decisions at key moments in the game.

“Most importantly, it means at least matching the opposition’s effort and desire to win.

“We know that there is a lot of work to do to reach the standards we all expect of Manchester United.

“But the first step in that process is for players to work together and put in the maximum effort in every game.

“I demand a lot of the players but also of myself. I am always learning and I will continue to give all my time and energy to get this club on the right path.

“I knew when I came to Manchester United that there was a big job to do and I would need to be patient, as will everybody around the club.

“But I also know that these players are able to do it and with patience from our supporters they will get there sooner rather than later.”

Speaking in the match-day programme The United Review,

Ten Hag added: “I have heard about the special atmosphere inside Old Trafford for games against Liverpool and I am looking forward to experiencing it because our fans have an important role to play in getting behind the team.”