England got their Euro 2024 campaign under way with a 1-0 win over Serbia on Sunday evening, but their display was less than inspiring, and the Manchester United manager had plenty to say
Erik ten Hag aimed a dig at Gareth Southgate for his approach during England’s 1-0 win over Serbia on Sunday – even if it largely mirrored that of Manchester United under the Dutchman.
The Three Lions got their Euro 2024 campaign under way with a 1-0 victory in Gelsenkirchen courtesy of Jude Bellingham’s 13th minute header.
Southgate’s side dominated possession but failed to create many openings, with captain Harry Kane remarkably only touching the ball once in the opening 45 minutes. England did improve in the second period, with Kane going close with a header, but Ten Hag was less than impressed with their dsiplay.
The Manchester United boss was working as a pundit for Dutch television channel NOS, and said after the match: “It’s the vision of the manager [Southgate],” said Ten Hag.
“England will take a 1-0 lead, then he [Southgate] decides to start gambling with making his team compact and relying on moments for the remaining minutes of the game.”
There is a strong argument that Ten Hag was essentially explaining the tactics of his side, who often seek to rely on moments to win matches, but the Dutchman has now become emboldened in his role following United’s decision to stick with him this summer after conducting a club review.
If you can’t see the poll, click here
Many had expected last month’s FA Cup final to be Ten Hag’s final match in charge of United, but he will now stay in his role and is expected to hold talks over a new contract.
Ten Hag admitted that the club held talks with the former Chelsea manager Thomas Tuchel, who left Bayern Munich this summer, about replacing him, but says they eventually came to the right decision.
“Here in Holland this [talking to another manager] is not done, in fact, it’s not even allowed here,” he said. “But in England, they have different rules and laws. INEOS took their time. They are new in football, it’s normal to reflect on the season. It’s no secret that they talked with multiple candidates.
“Manchester United have told me that they spoke with Tuchel, but they eventually came to the conclusion that they already have the best manager.”
Ten Hag also claimed that United left-back Luke Shaw will be fit to return for England in the knockout stages.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.