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Erik ten Hag Manchester United 2023-24Getty Images

Erik ten Hag bizarrely claims Man Utd were 'very good' despite fortunate Liverpool draw in defence of much-criticised playing style

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Article continues below

Article continues below

  • United winless in last three matches
  • Coach asked if he considered changing style
  • Dutchman defends Red Devils' tactics
  • WHAT HAPPENED?

    United came from behind to take a 2-1 lead against title challengers Liverpool at Old Trafford on Sunday before Mohamed Salah converted a late penalty to ensure the sides left with a point each. United failed to register a single shot in the first half and had nine attempts overall, whereas Liverpool had a massive 28 shots.

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  • Manchester United vs Liverpool - Harry MaguireGetty Images

    THE BIGGER PICTURE

    The Red Devils' draw on home soil came just days after they surrendered a lead late on to lose 4-3 to Chelsea at Stamford Bridge, which happened in the wake of a late comeback draw against Brentford. Their disappointing displays have sparked criticism of Ten Hag's style, but he has defended his team.

  • WHAT TEN HAG SAID

    Asked if he has considered changing his playing style, the coach told reporters: "No, it's clear when you play Chelsea, when you play Liverpool it will be a transition game. They are top, both teams. Both teams want to play and will leave space for others.

    "I thought that there were moments where we could've done better reactions in defensive transitions, but in general we did very good. We conceded only goals from two set plays. In our transitions, we could've done even better — for example [Alejandro] Garnacho and Bruno [Fernandes]. Already after a couple of minutes we should've took the lead."

  • Kobbie Mainoo Manchester United LiverpoolGetty

    WHAT NEXT FOR UNITED?

    Ten Hag's team are sixth in the Premier League and 11 points behind Aston Villa and Tottenham, leaving them with the slimmest of hope of qualifying for next season's Champions League. They are up against Bournemouth in their next match on Saturday.